Jannik Sinner receives support from ex-ATP No. 3 over 'understandable' decision to skip Davis Cup Finals amid controversy

Former World No. 3 Marin Cilic recently shared his thoughts on Jannik Sinner's controversial decision to skip the 2025 Davis Cup Finals, scheduled to be played in Bologna, in favor of rest and recovery so that he can be in his best version before the 2026 Australian Open.

The Italian media have heavily criticized Sinner, who is currently ranked World No. 2 and recently defeated Carlos Alcaraz to win the ATP Finals, for not representing the national side in the upcoming Davis Cup Finals.

In the wake of erupting controversy, Cilic supported Sinner's decision, citing the long tennis season. He said (via Flashscore):

"Team Italy won their first Davis Cup in 1976. Their second and third came in the last two years (with Sinner). I think Jannik even announced after winning it last year that he would take next year off from the Davis Cup, which is very understandable. "Tennis seasons are extremely long and difficult, and Jannik probably wants some rest for next year, which is normal."

Sinner had a great year in 2025, winning two Grand Slams on top of multiple ATP titles, including the year-end championship. He wants to rest, but Italy may no longer be the favorite to win the tournament in his absence.

What Jannik Sinner said regarding Davis Cup participation and the corresponding backlash

Jannik Sinner has decided to skip the 2025 Davis Cup Finals, to be played from Nov. 18 to 25 at home in Italy. He shared his reason:

“I’m a two-time Davis Cup winner. My team and I made this decision because the season is very long at the end of the year and I need an extra week of rest to start my preparation earlier. The goal is to get off to a good start in Australia. In the last two years, I haven’t reached my best level because I lacked time, that’s why we made this decision. We’ll see.”

In the wake of this decision, Italian tennis icon Nicola Pietrangeli called Sinner’s decision "a real slap in the face" for Italian sport. Pietrangeli believes that playing for the country should be a top priority.

Moreover, a consumer group in Italy, Codacons, wants the World No. 2 to be stripped of Italian honors after the controversial decision.

In the meantime, Sinner has also received support from those who can relate to the Italian's decision. Serena Williams' former coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, is one of them. Fellow pro Jack Draper also understands Sinner's decision.

Edited by Krutik Jain