HALLE, WESTPHALIA/STARNBERG, June 15, 2025

Jannik Sinner is back at the TERRA WORTMANN OPEN in Halle/Westphalia, returning as the defending champion for the 32nd edition of the ATP 500 grass-court tournament. One year ago, the 23-year-old from South Tyrol triumphed in Halle, winning his first tournament as the newly crowned World No. 1. Over the past year, Sinner has held onto that top ranking, achieving major victories at the 2024 US Open and the 2025 Australian Open.

Most recently, Sinner narrowly missed claiming the Roland Garros title, falling in what many have called the “match of the century” to Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz — after holding three match points in the fourth set.

At a press conference over the weekend, Sinner reflected on his return to Halle, the emotional challenges of recent weeks, and his growth over the past year.

A Special Return to Halle

“It is, of course, a very special moment to return to Halle, where I won my first tournament as World No. 1,” said Sinner. “That was simply a huge milestone, something that will always hold a special place in my career.”

Sinner’s connection to the TERRA WORTMANN OPEN runs deep. Early in his career, the tournament believed in his potential, offering him a wild card that helped launch his rise.

“I feel at home here now,” he said. “I felt trust here early on, people believed in me. I received a wild card. Every time I return to play in Halle, it brings me joy.”

The Calm of Halle

Sinner also praised the unique atmosphere of the tournament location, noting how it provides a refreshing contrast during a hectic part of the tennis season.

“There is simply less stress here,” he explained. “You sleep on the tournament grounds, everything is close by. It gives you a chance to breathe during this intense part of the season, when two Grand Slams are happening. You have to plan your day differently because you’re not wasting unnecessary time on long shuttle rides between the hotel and the tournament.”

Excited for our Singles Main Draw!
Which Match are you Looking forward to the Most? #tennis #atp #atphalle #TWO25 #sport #draw pic.twitter.com/hcGfcc7408

— TERRA WORTMANN OPEN (@ATPHalle) June 14, 2025

Being World No. 1

Sinner reflected on his year atop the ATP Rankings with humility and pride.

“Of course, I’m incredibly proud to have achieved that. I never really dared to dream of it,” he said. “For me, it was never primarily about reaching a certain ranking, but about getting the best out of myself. Good results and a lot of consistency will take you to the top. And consistency is the most important thing you need to deliver on tour — that long-term stability.”

Looking back at the past 12 months, Sinner acknowledged the pressure that comes with being World No. 1 — and how it has helped him grow.

“I’m happy to be in this position as No. 1, even if you’re the one everyone wants to beat at every tournament,” he said. “I’ve continued to make progress. I think I’ve become an even better player. I now know my potential very well.”

Heartbreak in Paris

Sinner didn’t shy away from discussing the emotional aftermath of his dramatic loss to Alcaraz in the French Open final.

“I had a few sleepless nights. That’s not something you get over easily,” he admitted. “But with each passing day, it got better. You have to focus on the tasks ahead — and also acknowledge: you’ve never played this well on clay as you did in Paris. The best way to push away the negative thoughts is to start playing another tournament. Then it’s all about getting back to your performance on court.”

He added, “Mentally, I’m definitely ready to fight again here in Halle. The first training session was still a bit difficult. But, as always, with every shot, the feeling improves.”

After Roland Garros, Sinner took time to reset and recharge mentally.

“I was at home and spent a lot of time with family and friends. That’s always a calming influence for me — being in my home environment,” he said. “It was very relaxed, we even had a nice barbecue together. I didn’t really follow much tennis during that time.”

From Clay to Grass

The transition from clay to grass isn’t easy, even for a World No. 1.

“This is always a complicated part of the season,” he said. “The first matches on grass are difficult. You have to be very focused and move well. For me, it’s important to serve smart. But I proved to myself last year that I can be a good grass-court player.”

After holding the No. 1 ranking for a full year, Sinner joins an elite group of players who achieved the same feat.

“I’ve heard that only Roger Federer, Jimmy Connors, Novak Djokovic, and Lleyton Hewitt have done that before,” Sinner noted. “It’s an honor for me to be part of such a group. But ultimately, you write your own story — beyond the statistics.”