Jannik Sinner has teamed up with the former fitness trainer of Novak Djokovic with the two working together until at least the end of this season, according to Sky Sports Italy.
Marco Panichi, who previously worked with Djokovic for more than six years, has been brought into the team following a recent shakeup. Sinner has removed two members from his camp after controversy surrounding his two failed anti-doping tests earlier this year which the ITIA concluded that he had no fault or negligence in. The world No.1 tested positive for the banned substance clostebol but managed to prove to officials that it was caused by an accidental contamination.
It was revealed that physio Giacomo Naldi used a spray for a cut on his finger that contained the banned drug. He then treated Sinner without gloves which is how the substance was transferred. Meanwhile, trainer Umberto Ferrara is said to have supplied Naldi with the spray. Shortly before this year’s US Open, both Naldi and Ferrara were fired from Sinner’s team due to a lack of confidence in them.
“They (Naldi and Ferrara) have been a huge part for my career,” Sinner told reporters in New York.
“We made an incredible job, bringing a lot of success and then having a great team behind me.
“Now, because of these mistakes, I’m not feeling that confident to continue with them. I was struggling a lot in the last months. I was waiting for the result. The only thing I need right now is some clean air.”
The two-time Grand Slam champion has now turned to the help of Panichi, who has worked with a series of top names in the sport. Whilst he is best known for his time with Djokovic, he has also trained Li Na, Fabio Fognini, Angelique Kerber and Simone Bolelli. He has also worked with the national tennis federations of Italy, China, Israel and Hong Kong.
It is unclear as to if or when an official announcement will be made about Panichi’s appointment. Sinner is expected to return to action later this month when the Tour heads to China.
