‘A lot of work to do’ – Sinner not at Alcaraz’s level says coach Vagnozzi

Published 31/12/2023 at 14:58 GMT

Jannik Sinner has enjoyed a memorable year in 2023 after helping Italy to a historic Davis Cup victory and winning his first Masters title in Toronto. He beat Carlos Alcaraz and Daniil Medvedev to win in Beijing, but the 22-year-old is still waiting to win a first Grand Slam title after reaching the Wimbledon semi-finals. His coach Simone Vagnozzi says that Carlos Alcaraz is at a higher level.’I was not that sharp’ – Sinner rues mistakes against ‘best player in world’ Djokovic

Jannik Sinner is not at the level of former world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz despite a stellar 2023, according to his coach Simone Vagnozzi.

Inevitable comparisons have been made between the Italian No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz, but Vagnozzi believes his young charge still has improvements to make before he can be viewed in the same light as the Spaniard.

“So, let’s not take Alcaraz as a point of reference; he has to go on the road. He often reaches the end in tournaments, and, sooner or later, the opportunity arises.

“Sinner does not start off beaten against anyone, but I believe he has a different path from Carlos who, despite being two years younger, is already ahead technically and physically.”

The 22-year-old won his first Masters title in Toronto and reached the championship match against Novak Djokovic in this year’s ATP Finals, before beating the Serb twice in singles and doubles to help Italy win a first Davis Cup title in 47 years.

Djokovic: When Sinner and Alcaraz ‘start to kick my butt’ I’ll consider retirement

With that in mind, Vagnozzi says there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic heading into 2024.

“There is still a lot to do and that is the positive aspect,” he explained.

“He has important margins and, despite this, he is close to the top-five ranking, he has won eight tournaments, including [an ATP] 1000. This is the aspect that gives us the most comfort.”

Sinner has received plenty of praise from his peers, including Nick Kyrgios and Alcaraz, with both believing that a first Grand Slam title is inevitable in the not-too-distant future.

“He’s definitely going to win some Slams,” said Kyrgios.

“Next year, I reckon, he might win a Slam. That’s my early prediction, yeah, he’s incredible.”

“He is one of those guys who are able to win a Grand Slam,” added Alcaraz.

“I think he’s going to reach No. 1 in 2024 or he’s going to give himself the chance to reach No. 1.”

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