Jannik Sinner has thus far managed to put the noise surrounding his drugs case behind him at the US Open.
John McEnroe ‘hates’ Sinner’s situation, with the Italian embroiled in controversy right before the US Open got underway.
Sinner escaped a drugs ban after twice testing positive for the banned substance clostebol in March, having been cleared by an independent tribunal.
The Italian has since parted ways with his physio and coach, but didn’t let that impact his US Open first round match.
US Open top seed Sinner did, however, have to come from behind to defeat Mackenzie McDonald at Flushing Meadows.
How have US Open fans reacted to Jannik Sinner?
The pair battled it out at Arthur Ashe Stadium, with the world number one beating the American 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-2.
Sinner has now shared how the US Open fans have been treating him since the drugs case news dropped, saying in his first round press conference: “The response from fans I feel has been great throughout when the news came out and in the practice sessions there was a lot of support, which I am very glad and happy about.
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“It is still a little bit not easy, you have to go through it day by day. I am very happy to be here in the position I am and trying to go day by day.
“Tomorrow I have one day off then a practice session and hopefully I am able to start the next match in a positive way.”
Jannik Sinner can use US Open crowd to his advantage
Players at every level will be fully aware of just how big a role the crowd can play, with US Open fans certain to be wishing American players the very best.
But Sinner seemingly has a good relationship with those watching on in New York, which he is unsurprisingly grateful for.
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The Italian must now use that support as he bids to win a second Grand Slam title this year, and the second of his career.
But again he needs to overcome a home player in Queens, having been drawn to face American Alex Michelsen in round two.
American players are in superb form at this moment time, with the likes of Frances Tiafoe, Sebastian Korda and Taylor Fritz all flying high.
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