Jannik Sinner arrived in New York this year with a champion’s target on his back . After capturing his maiden US Open crown in 2024, the 24-year-old Italian is now navigating the unique pressure of returning as the reigning champion. But in his mind, he isn’t defending anything. Instead, he says, he’s “always chasing.”

Asked about the challenge of trying to repeat at a major, Sinner offered a candid response that reflected both maturity and focus.

“As I always say, I’m not defending. You know, I’m always chasing, because every tournament you start with zero in the first round, and if you don’t play well, you are out of the tournament,” Sinner explained. “You are chasing for the trophies or good performances, and that’s what I’m trying to do.”

It was a refreshing answer from a playe

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