While Sinner has defeated Djokovic 6 times in their 10 encounters, including five consecutive matches recently, the dynamic was different a few years ago. Sinner lost three straight matches to a dominant Djokovic, including a 2-3 comeback loss in the 2022 Wimbledon quarterfinals.

In that match, Sinner won the first two sets 7-5, 6-2 but quickly lost the next three 3-6, 2-6, 2-6. Afterward, Cahill met with Djokovic and asked for his assessment of Sinner. The Australian coach explained that he had recently started working with Sinner and wanted to find ways to develop his career. He emphasized that no one was better than Djokovic at that time, particularly in reading the game, adjusting tactics, and pressuring opponents.

"Djokovic was great, very straightforward in what he thought," Cahill recalled. "According to Djokovic, Sinner's shots lacked definition, he never came to the net, and he didn't dare to return aggressively. I relayed those words to Sinner, and it had a huge impact on him. Almost immediately, he wanted to start working on improving the weaknesses Djokovic identified."

Djokovic (left) congratulates Sinner after their Australian Open semifinal match in January 2024, at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. *Photo: Reuters*

Cahill said Djokovic praised Sinner's returns and baseline game but noted a lack of decisiveness. Since then, the Italian player has made significant progress, repeatedly defeating Djokovic in major tournaments and even taking over the world number one ranking from him. Sinner only lost this top spot after the recent US Open final, where he lost to Alcaraz, ending a 65-week reign at the top of the ATP rankings.

After the loss to Alcaraz, Sinner acknowledged weaknesses in the consistency of his first serve and his volleying skills. "My game is predictable, while Alcaraz has evolved," he admitted. "Now it's my turn; I have to improve if I want to surpass him."

Sinner has lost to Alcaraz 10 times in their 15 matches, including 7 of their last 8. However, the Italian has shown promise against his rival, such as a dominant performance in the Roland Garros final and a convincing victory in the Wimbledon final.

"Sinner is calm after defeat, there's no panic because he knows he needs to face exceptional players like Alcaraz to identify his weaknesses and improve," Cahill added.

Cahill plans to end his partnership with Sinner after this season to take a break. However, Sinner's Wimbledon victory gives him the final say in this matter, according to a private agreement between the two. It remains unclear whether they will continue working together.

Vy Anh