Jannik Sinner Left Off ‘Nicest Players’ List in ATP Peer Poll

In a lighthearted survey during this week’s National Bank Open in Canada, ATP Tour competitors were asked to name the “nicest” players among their peers or so the playful poll suggested. Surprisingly, four time Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner was absent from all lists compiled by his fellow athletes.

The neutral yet telling omission comes despite Sinner’s growing stature in tennis, both on and off the court. He was notably missing from lists put together by Francisco Cerundolo, Daniil Medvedev, Holger Rune, and Lorenzo Musetti , who each named their picks for the tour’s friendliest figures.

Among the most frequently mentioned names was Carlos Alcaraz , chosen by multiple players for his gracious demeanor and conduct. Casper Ruud also received numerous nods for his well respected and amiable reputation across the locker room.

Breaking down the selections:

• Francisco Cerundolo included Ruud, Alcaraz, his brother Juan Manuel Cerundolo, Jakub Mensik, and Mariano Navone.
• Daniil Medvedev also listed Alcaraz and Ruud, as well as Joao Fonseca, Andrey Rublev, and Miomir Kecmanovic.
• Holger Rune named Alcaraz, Cerundolo, Gael Monfils, and praised Ben Shelton, calling him a “good lad.”
• Lorenzo Musetti, influenced by Italian solidarity, selected four compatriots but again, Sinner was notably absent

Interestingly, the exclusion doesn’t reflect personal animosity. In fact, Alcaraz, who did receive multiple “nicest player” mentions, has frequently praised Sinner. He described their relationship to Gazzetta dello Sport as one of mutual respect: “Tennis is a unique sport that allows you to be great rivals on the court and maintain mutual respect. I have great respect for him; he’s a great person.”

At just 23 and already boasting four Grand Slam titles, Sinner’s absence from the “nicest” list may raise eyebrows but it underscores the subjective nature of such informal polls. With top competitors sparing thoughtful picks for kind personalities on tour, Sinner’s omission is more intriguing than indicting.

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