The ex-global number 8 described Sinner as a “very talented youngster” and stated that constantly striving to improve is what distinguishes players like the Italian, Djokovic, and Nadal.
Sinner emerged victorious over Daniil Medvedev in a five-set match, after initially trailing by two sets, in the final of the 2024 Australian Open last month, securing his inaugural Grand Slam title.
At the semi-finals in Melbourne, the 22-year-old overcame world number 1 and 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic, advancing to his first-ever Grand Slam final.
In his first tournament following his triumph, Sinner emerged victorious at the ATP 500 event in Rotterdam last week, defeating Alex de Minaur in straight sets in the final.
The Italian, who achieved a career-best world ranking of number 3 this week, has now won 15 consecutive matches, with his last defeat occurring in the final of the 2023 ATP Finals in November against Djokovic.
During an appearance on the Sooshi Mango Saucy Meatballs Podcast, Philippoussis commended Sinner as an individual and praised his mindset and determination to continually improve.
“You know what’s great? He’s a fantastic youngster. I also jumped on the bandwagon. By the way, he was my choice at the beginning of the tournament, the Australian Open. He was my choice,” the Australian stated.
“He’s a remarkable youngster. When he walks past you, he acknowledges you, says hello, and shows respect to everyone. His team is exceptional, and he possesses the mindset of a champion.
“After winning, in the locker room, he asks himself, ‘how can I improve?’ That’s what sets Nadal and Djokovic apart from other players. That’s the mindset of a champion. These guys are always striving to get better.”
Philippoussis, an 11-time winner on the ATP Tour, reached the final of the 1998 US Open, where he was defeated by fellow Australian Pat Rafter in four sets. The Australian also finished as a runner-up at Wimbledon in 2003, losing in straight sets to Federer as the Swiss legend claimed his first major title.
The former world number 8 spent time coaching Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas during 2022 and 2023. Philippoussis was present in Tsitsipas’ corner during his journey to the final of the 2023 Australian Open.
Having endured numerous injury setbacks throughout his career, Philippoussis played his final professional match in 2015 in the first qualifying round for the ATP event in Newport, suffering a defeat against Eric Quigley. The Australian’s most significant triumph came in 1999 when he defeated Carlos Moya in five sets to win the Indian Wells Masters.
According to the Source tennis365.com