Sinner Grateful for Home Support

World No. 1 battles nerves and self-doubt to win first match after 3-month doping ban

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ROME - Jannik Sinner hailed the passionate backing he has received from his colourful support in Rome, after returning to tennis on May 10 with a confident win at the Italian Open.

The world No. 1 swept past Mariano Navone in front of over 10,000 home fans at the Foro Italico, looking nothing like a player who has spent three months out of the game due to a doping ban he says he grudgingly accepted from the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada).

The 23-year-old was roared on by fans dressed as carrots and decked out in orange in honour of his ginger hair, as he beat Navone 6-3, 6-4 in the second round.

"It has been amazing to go again on court after such a long time, having a great support also in the last days. From the first day I came here, it's amazing," said Sinner, who had not played since winning the Australian Open in January.

"I waited quite long for this moment. I'm very happy to be back.

"That means much more than any result, to be honest. It has been an amazing feeling to come here, starting from the first practices with other players."