Journalist Faces Backlash Over Comments on Sinner’s Davis Cup Decision

ROME, Italy — Renowned Italian journalist Bruno Vespa ignited controversy on social media after questioning why Italians should support tennis star Jannik Sinner, who recently announced he would not participate in the Davis Cup. His comments have drawn criticism from prominent figures in the sports community.

On Wednesday, Vespa tweeted, “Why should an Italian cheer for Sinner? He speaks German, lives in Monte Carlo, and refuses to play for the national team. Kudos to Alcaraz, who plays Davis Cup for Spain.”

This tweet followed Sinner’s rank drop to number two on the ATP leaderboard and sparked outrage among fans and sports icons alike. After criticism, Vespa corrected himself in a follow-up tweet, changing “Alvarez” to “Alcaraz” and suggested Sinner chose to skip the competition for an extended vacation.

Vespa’s comments were dismissed by prominent athletes, including Armin Zoeggeler, a legendary luger, who emphasized the importance of respecting Sinner’s achievements. “There are people who say he is not Italian because he speaks German? I know my origins; I hold an Italian passport. I have no problem with this,” he stated.

Champion diver Tania Cagnotto also weighed in, criticizing the ongoing criticism Sinner faces. “Some Italians excel at complaining. He’s very Italian; it feels like envy more than anything else,” she remarked.

Despite the uproar, Sinner’s team remains unfazed by the backlash. The debate surrounding his absence from the Davis Cup continues to unfold as fans rally behind the athlete.