Jannik Sinner's New Team Members: Marco Panichi and Ulises Badio Join After Grand Slam Triumph

SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES

Jannik Sinner, fresh off his impressive second Grand Slam title of the season, has made headlines once again by announcing the addition of two new members to his team. The world No. 1 tennis star has officially welcomed trainer Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio into his camp. This announcement, made on Monday, follows last week’s reports about these new collaborations.

A Fresh Start for Sinner: New Faces on Team Sinner

Sinner’s recent Instagram post, featuring a selfie with Panichi and Badio, proudly announced, "Welcome to the team." This move comes after both Panichi and Badio’s successful tenures with Novak Djokovic. Badio ended his association with Djokovic after the 2022 season, while Panichi and Djokovic parted ways in May of this year.

Addressing Past Challenges: Overcoming Controversy

Before the US Open began, Sinner faced controversy when the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) revealed that he had tested positive for the anabolic steroid clostebol twice in March. Despite being cleared of any wrongdoing by an independent tribunal—who found that the substance entered his system unintentionally—Sinner’s previous trainer, Umberto Ferrara, and physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, were dismissed. Sinner cited their mistakes, including Ferrara’s purchase of Trofodermin and Naldi’s improper handling of the medication, as reasons for their dismissal.

Sinner’s Continued Success: A Promising Season

Despite these setbacks, Sinner has had a stellar season. With a 55-5 record, he holds a commanding 3,000-point lead over Alexander Zverev in the ATP year-end No. 1 race. His impressive run includes six titles this season alone. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) still has the option to appeal the tribunal’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne, leaving Sinner’s path to complete exoneration not entirely clear.

Team Sinner’s New Dynamic

Panichi and Badio join an already formidable coaching team that includes Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill. Panichi, who recently began working with the 19-year-old Jerry Shang—who reached the third round of the US Open—brings a wealth of experience to Sinner’s camp. Badio, known for his effective physiotherapy, will support Sinner’s physical readiness as he continues to compete at the highest level.