Jannik Sinner has just become world number 1 in the ATP rankings. The video that captured his surprise on learning the news after Novak Djokovic’s retirement has gone viral. And Nicola Pietrangeli, who some time ago had to face the accusation of being a “rosicone”, today tells Repubblica that if the South Tyrolean wins the Roland Garros he will go to reward him in a wheelchair. «Joy for the boy who became a man. Sincere congratulations to Jannik. And then, immediately afterwards, I wonder what the haters will invent about me this time”, says Pietrangeli immediately, betraying a bit of nervousness. And rejecting the accusations of egocentrism: «But when ever: there is always someone who pops out and attacks me. But how is it done? I’m only sorry that my words, even joking, were misunderstood.”
The awards ceremony
According to Pietrangeli, a victory at Roland Garros «is like the noblest Olympic gold medal that can exist, and it is the highest level. He’s unique. But, if I may, the work of the federation should also be celebrated. I think it’s there for everyone to see.” And he denies jealousy: «Absolutely not. Jannik deserved this result. Good boy”. But there’s a problem. They are waiting for him in Paris for the awards ceremony but perhaps he won’t go: «I’m too bruised, I already said I was giving up. Also because I see fewer and fewer friends there at Roland Garros.” But he could make an exception for Sinner: «Well, if it happens and maybe they insist, I couldn’t say no to a request like that. At the cost of going down to the Centrale with the wheelchair. I would really like to reward him, I mean it.” And Pietrangeli gives some advice to the new king of world tennis: «Now he will have to watch his back. In the sense that if before they wanted to beat him because he could have been a good prey, now they will all take the field with that fixed thought. But I don’t think he needs this suggestion: he and his team have understood everything about the world, we can rest assured.”
