Jannik Sinner ‘looking forward’ to ‘completely different’ Djokovic test

Jannik Sinner believes that Novak Djokovic ‘has improved’ since last year, as the Italian looks to reach his first Grand Slam final later today.

Sinner has enjoyed a very favourable draw to his first ever major semi-final, with his highest ranked opponent holding a world ranking of No.79.

The 21-year-old beat Roman Safiullin, 6-4 3-6 6-2 6-2, to reach the Wimbledon semi-final and is now ‘looking forward’ to playing Djokovic at SW19 again.

“I am going to watch [last year’s quarter-final], knowing that it is going to be a completely different match, because I am different but I feel like also he has improved,” said Sinner. “He is playing much better, so it’s going to be a very tactical match.”

Sinner added, “Let’s see how the situation is going to be – if we play with the roof closed if it’s raining, if there is sun, if it’s windy, all these kinds of things. I’m very happy that I can face him again.”

SPECIAL SINNER ??

The Italian reaches his first Grand Slam semi-final, beating Safiullin 6-4, 3-6, 6-2, 6-2#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/n9dBHVCYCG

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 11, 2023

The No.8 has also reflected on his accomplishment of reaching a Grand Slam semi-final, “It means a lot, many hours of work on the court and sacrifices, and it feels good.

“In the other way, the tournament is not finished. I’m happy, I’m pleased that I can play my first semi-final here in this special court against a very special player. I’m looking forward to and hopefully it’s going to be a good match.”

Grateful for moments like this, into the semifinals! ??? @Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/UiD1sYLtvw

— Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) July 11, 2023

Sinner claims that he is ‘excited’ for the contest with Djokovic, revealing where he believes he has improved since 2022.

“I’m excited. I’m looking forward to this kind of match, because in my mind I feel like I have learned many things from last year’s lesson,” Sinner said.

“I feel like that I have improved a lot throughout one year. Physically, mentally is a little a little bit different because I’m a top 10 player now. It is also mentally different and I’m looking forward to this.”

Sinner will take on 23-time Grand Slam champion Djokovic at 1:30pm (BST) on Centre Court today, with the Italian looking to prevent the Serb from winning a fifth consecutive Wimbledon title.