In an era where the digital past never disappears, the audiovisual archive once again becomes an inexhaustible source of curiosities, and the protagonist this time is the Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner. A video rescued from his teenage years has once again made the rounds on social networks, unleashing comments and comparisons.
In the images, Sinner, just 17 years old, responds to a reporter with the serenity that characterizes him today and talks about his life and his beginnings in tennis: “My father gave me a racket and at the age of 14 I decided to become a professional. I train every day. On the court, everyone has their own way, I think I’m very calm. I don’t like nightlife, I prefer to have a Coke,” says the young Jannik with a naturalness that surprises. The last sentence, said almost timidly, is the one that has unleashed the viral phenomenon: “I don’t like nightlife, I prefer to have a Coke”.
Discipline vs enjoyment: the comparison with Alcaraz
Beyond the endearing tone of the video, the content has reignited one of the most recurrent debates in contemporary tennis, such as the comparison between Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Two phenomena of the new generation, with different styles both on and off the court.
While Sinner has always projected an image of concentration, method and almost Spartan routine, Alcaraz represents the opposite pole. Spontaneous, charismatic, with a constant smile, the Spaniard has not hesitated to show himself enjoying life between tournaments, whether in Ibiza, at concerts or on trips with friends. What for some is a sign of balance, for others, the more conservative, is a lack of focus.
This video has reignited the dichotomy of Sinner’s quiet asceticism versus Alcaraz’s philosophy of enjoyment. And while both have achieved success by different paths, the comparison is inevitable.
In this sense, the video has not only provoked laughter for its candor, but also praise for Sinner’s consistency over the years. Because if one thing has been clear since he settled in the tennis elite, it is that this mentality has not changed. He remains reserved, disciplined, away from unnecessary noise and focused on his performance.
But behind the virality, there is an interesting point that touches the fiber of professional sport. There is no single way to be a champion. The Sinner-Alcaraz rivalry is not only about tennis; it is also philosophical. And it is precisely this difference that enriches the narrative of both.
Read the full article here
