John McEnroe shares what Jannik Sinner’s coach raised during his three-month ban from tennis

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Since returning to the ATP Tour, Jannik Sinner has wasted no time making an impact, reaching consecutive finals.

Sinner faced Carlos Alcaraz in both finals on clay, with the latest coming in a five-set showdown at Roland Garros.

The Italian held a two-set lead in the Roland Garros final, before Alcaraz staged a comeback, saving three match points along the way.

Both Sinner and Alcaraz drew praise for their performances, with John McEnroe even suggesting they could challenge a prime Rafael Nadal.

McEnroe has since spoken more about Sinner, including what his coach shared about the player’s three-month ban from the sport.

What Darren Cahill told John McEnroe about Sinner during his suspension

McEnroe shared how coach Darren Cahill was worried Sinner might lose focus during his time away from the ATP Tour in an interview with Italian outlet Corriere Della Serra, but after watching Sinner’s return, McEnroe doesn’t see any sign of lost momentum.

“I spoke with Cahill, he told me that the concern was not to make Jannik lose focus between Australia and Rome, during the three months of stop,” McEnroe said. “They succeeded.

“Sinner returned the same as the one we left in Melbourne with the cup in his hand. I don’t see any differences. There was doubt about his stamina but in Paris it wasn’t hot, the climate helped him. Too bad about those three match points.”

Sinner served a three-month suspension after accepting a ban from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for two positive tests in March last year.

Throughout, the world number one maintained his innocence – but couldn’t return until the Italian Open following his Australian Open win.

McEnroe compares the unique qualities of Sinner and Alcaraz

Sinner and Alcaraz currently sit atop the ATP rankings, having split the last six Grand Slam titles between them.

Asked if Sinner possesses the same aura, the seven-time Grand Slam champion explained how the two players differ.

“Definitely, in terms of presence,” McEnroe replied. “Personality is not easily built, I say this from experience: you are born with it.

“Alcaraz also has charisma, which is why their matches are so electric. Both have unique elements. Carlos is the most talented young man I have ever seen hold a racket, Jannik is not far behind.”

“Alcaraz is brighter, Sinner is more consistent. I am struck by the sound of Jannik’s ball: I have never heard anything like it.”

After falling just short in Paris, Sinner will now turn his attention to the grass-court season.

He is expected to begin his campaign in Halle – where he is the defending champion – before heading to Wimbledon.