10.08.2025 03:01
Jannik Sinner Dismisses Coach Pre-Wimbledon Over Confidentiality Breach: Report
Published on: Aug 01, 2025 02:14 pm IST
Jannik Sinner had parted ways with Marco Panichi, and an Italian outlet has now revealed a key reason behind the split.
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has made significant changes to his support team recently, notably dismissing his coach Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio just before Wimbledon. Despite these changes, Sinner triumphed at the All England Club, beating World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz in the finals. The Italian athlete has now brought back his former fitness coach, Umberto Ferrara.
At the time of their separation, Sinner claimed there was “no major reason” for parting ways with Panichi and Badio. Yet, Italian outlet Corriere della Sera has since reported that Sinner became increasingly uncomfortable with some of Panichi’s decisions, both on and off the court.
One catalyst for the split was Panichi reportedly leaking confidential team information to the press, including Sinner’s emotional reaction after losing to Alcaraz at Roland Garros, where he failed to convert three championship points. Panichi had disclosed to the media that Sinner wept for 15 minutes in the locker room and was troubled by fans’ apparent preference for Alcaraz.
Following their dismissals, both Panichi and Badio, who previously collaborated with Novak Djokovic, faced scrutiny. Panichi, in particular, was considered a divisive figure in Sinner’s camp, with allegations that he often violated team rules regarding public statements without prior approval.
Sinner hinted at broken trust
Sinner, a four-time Grand Slam champion, initially downplayed speculation surrounding their departures. “Nothing big happened. It’s not affecting me. I feel ready to compete. I feel free. We reached incredible results in the past with them. We did great work, but I decided to try something different. Nothing crazy happened,” he remarked during Wimbledon.
However, Sinner later acknowledged that a lack of trust led to the changes. “Communication is vital for the group to function. You have to trust. We spend a lot of time together throughout the year, and it’s important to find the right people,” he elaborated.
The 23-year-old has since reinstated Umberto Ferrara, who left the team last year due to an investigation into Sinner’s two failed doping tests. It was concluded that the positive results stemmed from accidental contamination. Sinner’s previous physio, Giacomo Naldi, had applied a spray containing traces of the banned substance clostebol to treat a cut on Sinner’s finger, and later massaged him without gloves. The spray had been supplied by Ferrara.
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Stay updated with the latest sports news, including headlines and updates from the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Indian athletes will pursue glory. Enjoy comprehensive coverage of tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favorite football teams and players for the latest match results, and get updates on international hockey tournaments and series.