The captain of the Italian national team speaks out in defense of Sinner

Jannik Sinner's choice not to participate in the 2025 Davis Cup Finals has sparked much criticism.

World No. 2 Jannik Sinner has confirmed that he will not join the Italian team at the 2025 Davis Cup Finals held at home, citing exhaustion after a demanding season. Sinner announced this on Monday, disappointing fans and attracting criticism as Italy is the reigning champion of the tournament.

"My team and I have decided to withdraw because the season is still long, and I need more time to rest and prepare for the upcoming phase." Sinner stated. The 24-year-old player has competed in a total of 50 matches in 2025, achieving a record of 44 wins and 6 losses along with 3 titles.

Sinner’s absence is considered a significant loss for Italy — the team that won the Davis Cup consecutively in 2023 and 2024, marking their first titles since 1976. However, captain Filippo Volandri did not criticize his player; instead, he expressed understanding and called on tennis governing bodies, especially the ITF and ATP, to reconsider the tournament’s scheduling.

"I believe the Davis Cup doesn't have to be held every year, and more importantly, it needs to be scheduled more reasonably. It cannot take place immediately after the season ends when all players are exhausted. If we value this competition, it deserves a proper place on the calendar," Volandri shared with Gazzetta dello Sport.

According to the plan, the Davis Cup Finals this year will be held in Bologna from November 18 to 23 — just two days after the ATP Finals conclude. The short gap between these events prevents many top players from fully recovering their fitness.

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