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Jannik Sinner is set to begin his 2026 ATP Tour campaign with expectations higher than ever, following a season that further cemented his status as one of the defining forces in modern men’s tennis.
The Italian star has already built an enviable resume at just 24, and former French Open champion Adriano Panatta believes Sinner may now be targeting one of the sport’s most elusive achievements.
After another dominant year on tour, Sinner enters the new season not merely as a contender for titles, but as a player capable of rewriting tennis history.
Sinner’s dominant rise continues on the ATP Tour
Sinner’s most recent campaign showcased his growing authority on the biggest stages in the sport. He captured six ATP titles, including two Grand Slam trophies, underlining his consistency across surfaces and his ability to perform under pressure.
A second Australian Open triumph, combined with his maiden Wimbledon crown, took his major tally to four and firmly placed him among the elite of the current generation.
Ranked world No. 2 behind longtime rival Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner has emerged as a regular fixture in the latter stages of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments.
His blend of power, precision, and mental resilience has allowed him to maintain a remarkably high level throughout the season, something that continues to separate him from much of the field.
A historic goal quietly taking shape
While Sinner is closing in on several personal and tour records, Panatta believes there is one historic milestone firmly on the Italian’s mind.
Speaking to OA Sport, the former Roland Garros champion suggested that Jannik Sinner could be eyeing the Calendar Grand Slam — a feat achieved by only two men in tennis history.
“In my opinion, Jannik has a hidden goal inside himself, which is to win the [Calendar] Grand Slam,” Panatta said.
Winning all four major titles in a single calendar year remains one of the rarest accomplishments in professional tennis, previously achieved only by Don Budge and Rod Laver.
Despite the dominance of legends such as Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal, the milestone has remained out of reach in the modern era.
Stability and belief driving Jannik Sinner’s ambitions
Panatta also pointed to Sinner’s decision to continue working with coach Darren Cahill as a key indicator of his long-term vision. According to him, the move signals a clear intention to pursue something extraordinary rather than settling for incremental success.
“The decision to continue with Cahill in 2026 is a sign that he’s really thinking about it,” Panatta explained.
He also highlighted the unique dynamics of the current ATP landscape, noting that while competition remains fierce, the battle at the very top is largely concentrated between Sinner and Alcaraz.
“As a type of player, Sinner is better equipped than Alcaraz to win the Grand Slam because he’s more consistent and solid,” Panatta added, while also acknowledging Alcaraz’s ability to reach unplayable peaks.
As Jannik Sinner prepares to launch his 2026 campaign, the conversation around his career is shifting from potential to possibility. With multiple Grand Slam titles already secured and his prime years still ahead, the Italian finds himself in rare territory.
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