For Sinner, 2024 was a year of remarkable success. He claimed his first two Grand Slam titles at January's Australian Open and September's US Open. The 23-year-old also won the season-ending ATP Finals earlier this month, losing just six of his 76 ATP Tour matches in the last 12 months. However, his immediate future in the sport is uncertain due to an ongoing doping controversy. In the Davis Cup final against Griekspoor, he looked fatigued in the opening set but surged late in the second to seal Italy's third Davis Cup triumph on his fourth match point. Italy's victory makes them the sixth team to win back-to-back Davis Cup titles since the final stage was introduced 52 years ago and the first since the Czech Republic in 2013.
Sinner's performance showcases his exceptional talent and determination. His ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments is truly remarkable. Despite the doping controversy hanging over him, his on-court achievements cannot be ignored. He has become a force to be reckoned with in the tennis world and his victory in the Davis Cup is a testament to his skills.
Berrettini watched Italy's 2023 victory from the sidelines as he recovered from a serious ankle injury. Spending six months on the sidelines took a toll on his ranking, dropping him out of the world's top 150. But he returned to action in March and quickly showed his form by claiming three titles, the most he has ever won in a calendar year. Now ranked 35th, he has been a key player in Italy's title defence this week. Pairing up with Sinner, he won the doubles decider against Argentina and then triumphed in his semi-final singles match against Australia's Thanasi Kokkinakis.
In the final against Van de Zandschulp, Berrettini replicated his fine form, hitting 10 forehand winners and 16 aces on his way to victory. His words after the match, "It feels unbelievable, it feels really great to be on court – being able to be health and enjoying this kind of atmosphere is the most important thing for me," highlight his love for the game and his determination to perform at his best. His return to form is a testament to his resilience and hard work.