Tearful sinner dedicates US Open title to seriously ill aunt

A tearful Jannik Sinner dedicated his victory at the US Open on Sunday to his aunt, who he revealed is battling a serious illness, and confessed: “I don’t know how much longer I will have her in my life.”

The 23-year-old world number one Sinner secured his second Grand Slam title of the season when he swept Taylor Fritz off the court 6-3, 6-4, 7-5 before fighting back tears on the winner’s podium.

“I love tennis and train a lot for these stages, but I realize that there is also life away from the tennis courts and I want to dedicate this to my aunt who is not well,” said Sinner.

“I don’t know how much longer I’ll have her in my life. It’s nice that I can still share these moments with her. She is and still is an important person in my life.

“If I could make one wish, I would wish everyone good health, but unfortunately that is not possible.”

Sinner arrived in New York under dark clouds after it was revealed that he had failed two doping tests but still avoided punishment.

He was cleared of any wrongdoing, although some teammates questioned the decision and said Sinner may have benefited from preferential treatment because of his prominence in the sport.

“This title means so much to me because the last phase of my career was not easy. My team supported me every day and I thank the people who are close to me,” said Sinner.

“I am happy and proud to share this moment with my team. I have had so many big wins this season, starting in Australia and playing well, which gives me confidence now.”

He added: “The work never stops. I know I can still improve, but you have to be proud of what you have and then work for the rest.”

Sinner’s victory dashed American hopes of winning the men’s majors at home for the first time in 21 years.

Andy Roddick was the last American to win a Grand Slam title in New York in 2003.

Fritz, the first American in a Grand Slam final since Roddick at Wimbledon in 2009, said he was determined to come back and win his first major title.

“It was two incredible weeks and first of all congratulations to Jannik, he played a great match. That’s really impressive. He was too good,” said the world number 12.

“Being an American at the US Open is just incredible, feeling the love all week.

“I know we’ve waited a long time for a champion so I’m sorry I didn’t make it this time but I’ll keep working and hope I can do it next time so thank you.”

DJs/JS