In the wake of his unexpected withdrawal from the 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters due to severe leg cramps, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner turned a moment of personal setback into a beacon of inspiration for young aspiring athletes across Italy and beyond. The 24-year-old Italian champion, having just launched his eponymous foundation dedicated to the emancipation of children through education and sport, announced a heartfelt initiative that has captured the hearts of the nation.
“After the Shanghai Masters, I will organize a special performance with Musetti and Berrettini to transform tennis into a bridge of hope,” Sinner revealed in a post-match press conference, his voice firm despite the visible disappointment of the third-round elimination against Tallon Griekspoor. The exhibition, which will feature Italian colleagues Lorenzo Musetti and Matteo Berrettini, will see the entire proceeds donated to educational projects and scholarships for disadvantaged children who dream of taking over a racket but don’t have the resources to do so.
Sinner’s words had a profound resonance in Italy, where tennis has experienced a rebirth thanks to the successes of the Azzurri trio. “True success is not winning a Slam, but giving a child the chance to pursue their dream,” he added, echoing the mission of the Jannik Sinner Foundation, which he presented in Milan a few weeks ago. The foundation, focused on changing children’s lives through sport and education, has already garnered widespread support, with Sinner pledging to use its platform for global good.
The announcement comes at a poignant time. Sinner’s forced retirement not only ended his title defense, but also shifted the year-end No. 1 race in favor of rival Carlos Alcaraz. Yet instead of dwelling on the loss, Sinner channeled his energies into philanthropy, drawing inspiration from his humble origins in South Tyrol. Musetti, 23, and Berrettini, 29—both top-10 players who shared the court with Sinner in Davis Cup triumphs—immediately endorsed the idea, with Berrettini posting on social media: “Proud to stand with Jannik for the next generation. Tennis has changed our lives; now let’s change theirs.”
Fans across Italy are moved to tears by Sinner’s promise, flooding social media with messages of support. “This is what a true champion looks like,” wrote one user, while another added: “A promise worth more than any trophy.” The exhibition, tentatively scheduled for late November in Italy, is expected to attract large crowds and raise significant funds for scholarships, which will cover coaching, equipment and travel for talented kids from low-income families.
As Sinner recovers and aims for a return to the circuit, potentially at the Paris Masters or the finals later this year, his impact off the court continues to grow. Like fellow Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek, who has announced similar charitable initiatives, Sinner is redefining success in tennis. In a sport often defined by individual glory, this collaborative effort with Musetti and Berrettini highlights a collective commitment to giving back, leaving the world of tennis inspired and a united Italy waiting.
