In a heartbreaking and emotional revelation that has stunned the sports world, Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner has announced his withdrawal from the 2025 Internazionali d’Italia and declared that he will leave Italy permanently following what he described as a relentless wave of abuse, betrayal, and toxic pressure from his home country.
The 23-year-old tennis prodigy, widely regarded as one of Italy’s most promising athletes, broke down in tears during a surprise press conference in Monte Carlo, just weeks before the start of the Italian Open in Rome.
“I’m done pretending. I feel like a parasite in my own country,” Sinner said through sobs. “Everyone has abandoned me. I gave everything to this sport and to this nation—and this is what I get in return.”
The Breaking Point
Sinner, who has battled through injuries and personal struggles in recent months, has been facing growing criticism from sections of the Italian media and public, accusing him of lacking national pride and skipping key tournaments due to physical and mental fatigue.
Many critics targeted him after he chose to prioritize recovery and rest following a demanding schedule, opting out of Davis Cup commitments and reducing his 2025 clay season.
“I’ve been called a coward, a traitor, even a disgrace. I’ve received messages wishing me injury, and people who once praised me now act like I’m a burden to Italian tennis,” Sinner explained.
While he had remained silent throughout much of the backlash, today’s public meltdown marked a dramatic shift in his response to the pressure.
Decision to Withdraw and Exile
Sinner confirmed that he would not play in Rome this year, despite it being one of the most prestigious events in his home country.
“I cannot walk onto that court and pretend I’m playing for a country that doesn’t stand by me when I need it most,” he said. “It hurts too much.”
In a stunning turn, he also revealed that he would relocate abroad, leaving his residence in Northern Italy for good.
“This is not just about tennis anymore. It’s about my sanity. I need peace—and I won’t find it in Italy,” he stated.
Although he did not specify where he would move, close sources suggest that Sinner may establish a permanent base in Monte Carlo or Switzerland, where many top players live to escape media scrutiny and tax pressure.
Fans and Players React
News of Sinner’s emotional outburst and withdrawal has triggered an outpouring of support from international fans and fellow tennis players.
Former world No. 1 Rafael Nadal posted on social media:
“You’re one of the best. Don’t let hate silence your passion. The tennis world is with you, Jannik.”
Meanwhile, Italian sports legend Francesco Totti urged fans to reflect:
“We ask so much from our athletes but give so little in return when they suffer. Jannik deserves better.”
Despite the toxicity he faced, thousands of Italian fans also expressed shock and regret over his decision. The hashtag #ForgiveUsJannik began trending within hours of his statement.
A Dark Day for Italian Tennis
Sinner’s announcement casts a long shadow over the 2025 Internazionali d’Italia, which now loses its brightest national star, and raises serious questions about the treatment of athletes by media and the public in high-pressure environments.
Looking Ahead
Although Sinner’s future in tennis remains secure—he is expected to continue playing on the ATP Tour—his relationship with his homeland appears deeply fractured.
“Maybe one day I’ll return. But for now, I need to breathe. I need to heal,” Sinner said as he exited the press room.
In an era where mental health is finally gaining recognition in professional sports, Jannik Sinner’s emotional confession serves as a powerful reminder that even champions can be crushed by the weight of expectation and public scrutiny.
And today, the cheers of Rome are replaced with a deafening silence—a silence of a nation that may have lost its brightest star, not because he failed, but because it failed him.
