The Japan Times - Sinner expects 'different atmosphere' at French Open after doping ban

Sinner returned to competition in front of his home fans at the Italian Open earlier this month where he lost in the final to Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz.

In the first round, the Italian will have the Roland Garros crowd largely against him when he plays 72nd-ranked Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech.

"It's definitely going to be different," the 23-year-old told journalists on Friday.

"I know that. But I don't think they have something against me, no? It's right that they support the players who are from here, who are local here.

"It's the same when I play against American players in the US Open. So it's normal. You know, I got an amazing atmosphere in Rome because I'm Italian.

"It's right that the player who play in this city or country, that they got more support.

"So I know that. Last year I played also against some French players here. So I know a little bit what to expect."

Sinner hailed the passionate backing he received from supporters in Rome during his comeback event.

But when asked if he was anticipating a more hostile reception in Paris after his doping suspension, Sinner was unsure.

"Different moment because whatever happened happened. So let's see. I cannot answer that question," he said.

- 'No miracles' -

Before Rome, Sinner had not played since retaining his Australian Open crown at the end of January. He served a doping ban for testing positive twice in March last year for traces of clostebol, a contamination doping authorities accept was accidental.

"There is a lot of room to improve," Sinner said of his performance in Rome.

He has played at five previous French Opens, with his best run to the semi-finals last year where he lost in five sets to eventual champion Alcaraz.

"For sure it was great after three months coming back making final. It was my first big final on clay, which is not to underrate, because we worked a lot for that, but also it was a great feeling to be part of this final.

"Hopefully we are on time to make small changes for here," he continued. "There are no miracles. I need some time. Matches are different than practice sessions.

"I felt in Rome that we have had some stats from that tournament where some were good; some were not where I want to be. And that's exactly I felt on court.

"But yeah, we are working hard, trying to reach the physical level I would like to, and how I would like to feel on court.

"But, you know, best-of-five is going to be a great test for me, trying to understand where I am. Yeah, let's see how my body will respond here.

"We have seen a couple of things where I can improve, and Grand Slams are just different.

"You know, you have to be mentally ready, physically too trying to use the right energy. It's all about being consistent and solid."

T.Kobayashi--JT