World number one Jannik Sinner is bracing for a “different” reception at Roland Garros as he prepares for his first Grand Slam appearance since returning from a doping suspension.
The Italian, who recently made his comeback at the Italian Open, said he was aware that the French crowd may not be entirely on his side when he takes on local hopeful Arthur Rinderknech in the first round of the French Open.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Sinner acknowledged that the atmosphere in Paris would contrast sharply with the support he enjoyed in Rome.
“It’s going to be different,” the 23-year-old admitted. “But I don’t think they have something against me. It’s natural for them to support their home players. I experienced the same thing playing in the US against Americans.”
The French crowd will likely be vocal in support of Rinderknech, ranked 72nd in the world, and Sinner said he was prepared for the challenge. “Last year I also played some French players here, so I know what to expect,” he said.
Sinner returned to the tour earlier this month at the Italian Open, where he advanced to the final before falling to Carlos Alcaraz.
The tournament marked his return following a three-month suspension after testing positive twice for the banned substance clostebol in March 2024. Authorities accepted that the case was the result of accidental contamination.
Reflecting on his performance in Rome, Sinner said it was encouraging but not without room for improvement.
“There’s still a lot to work on. It was my first major final on clay, and we were proud of that. But there are no miracles. I still need time,” he said. “Matches are not the same as practice, and I felt that during the tournament.”
The reigning Australian Open champion, who also won the US Open and defended his Melbourne title earlier this year, said he’s focusing on regaining peak physical condition. “We’re working hard to reach the level I want to be at physically and mentally. A Grand Slam is different—it’s about conserving energy, being consistent, and staying strong mentally.”
Sinner reached the semi-finals of the French Open last year, where he lost in a five-set thriller to eventual champion Alcaraz.
While optimistic about his chances, he remained cautious. “Best-of-five matches will be a great test for me. Let’s see how my body responds,” he said.
