Diplomat Sinner ducks ATP scheduling controversy

Jannik Sinner kept his focus strictly on the court on Tuesday as the world No. 1 avoided getting caught in controversy over the lengthy ATP calendar.

The top-ranked winner of the US Open this month will head the field at the China Open as the ATP Asian swing picks up in Beijing this week.

Sinner is defending his title from 2023 and neatly sidestepped growing player complaints about the bloated schedule of tournaments.

“The schedule is quite long obviously But we players, obviously we have some mandatory events.. but as a player, you can still choose,” he said.

“It is a very busy schedule this year; there are a lot of tournaments.  You don’t have to play a tournament.  If you want, you can play.  If not, you don’t play.”

Sinner added: “Last year and also this year, I didn’t play some tournaments because I wanted to practice.  There are some choices behind this.

“In general, the season is quite long, so sometimes it’s not easy.”

While avoiding the calendar controversy over a season which often stretches to 11 months for some, Sinner is focusing concentration on his game.

The winner of two Grand Slam titles this season is looking to add a seventh trophy to his list of 2024 accomplishments.

“I think I always try to improve, doesn’t really matter the result.

“I always try to understand myself and what I have to improve off the court and on the court, all these things.

“I’m excited to be back and play tournaments because this is what I practice for. 

Even in the practice sessions, I always try to understand what’s working and what’s not working.  

“It’s all part of the process and I  think this is the most exciting part.”