With an expanded field of 48 countries in action at the World Cup, interest among tennis players will be at an all-time high… with the possible exception of Italian players after the 2006 champion nation failed to qualify.
Casper Ruud, who will be cheering on Norway and striker Erling Haaland in his World Cup debut, couldn’t help but take a friendly dig at Sinner after falling to the World No. 1 in the Rome final.
“Italy is doing very well in tennis, but in football it’s another story,” Ruud joked during the trophy ceremony.
Separately, Sinner was asked if he would trade one of his titles if it meant Italy qualified for this year’s World Cup. “I’d like to make this exchange because it’s a simple thing,” Sinner said. “Many young people and kids haven’t seen the World Cup yet, especially with Italy not being there.”
The World Cup began June 11 and culminates July 19 at East Rutherford, New Jersey.