Jannik Sinner launches foundation to empower children through sports and education

World number one Jannik Sinner announces foundation to support youth initiatives in Italy and abroad.

Jannik Sinner of Italy speaks to the media at Albert Park Lake on January 27, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Kelly Defina/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Jannik Sinner, the world number one tennis player, has officially launched the Jannik Sinner Foundation, an initiative designed to empower children through education and sports. The announcement, made on Monday, comes just six days before Sinner's much-anticipated return to professional tennis after serving a three-month doping ban.

The foundation will focus on supporting various sports programs, school projects, and community initiatives with the goal of making both sports and education more accessible to children and young athletes, both in Italy and internationally. The aim is to provide opportunities for the next generation to thrive, while also promoting the values of discipline, resilience, and self-confidence that have been central to Sinner's own journey.

"For me, it's an honor to support children and young athletes," Sinner said in a statement. "Sports have taught me invaluable lessons: discipline, resilience, and the courage to stay true to myself. Lessons that I believe are worth sharing. Through our work, we want to show kids what's possible, not just in sports but in life."

The foundation will be chaired by Sinner's manager, Alex Vittur, who has been instrumental in guiding the tennis star's career. The board of directors will also feature prominent figures such as Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula One, further strengthening the foundation’s reach and influence in the world of sports.

Sinner's announcement comes after a difficult period in his career. The 23-year-old was sidelined earlier this year following a doping ban in February, after testing positive for clostebol, a banned substance, in March of the previous year. Despite the setback, Sinner has remained focused on his long-term goals, and his return to the court is eagerly anticipated, particularly with the Rome Open set to begin on May 7, 2025.

The doping ban has certainly put a pause on his impressive momentum, which includes three Grand Slam titles, but Sinner is determined to move forward with both his professional tennis career and his philanthropic efforts. His foundation serves as a testament to his commitment to giving back and inspiring the younger generation to pursue their passions, regardless of the challenges they may face.

The Jannik Sinner Foundation’s programs will not only focus on providing sports opportunities but will also be deeply committed to supporting educational projects. Sinner's belief in the transformative power of both sports and education is reflected in his personal journey, and he is dedicated to making these opportunities more accessible for those who may not have the same privileges.

The foundation's initiative is especially meaningful considering the challenges many young athletes and students face in underprivileged areas, where access to quality sports facilities and education may be limited. By establishing this foundation, Sinner hopes to bridge this gap and create a more inclusive environment where young people can develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in both sports and life.

As Sinner prepares to return to the tennis circuit, all eyes will be on his performance in the upcoming Rome Open, set to run from May 7 to May 18, 2025. However, his commitment to his foundation and the impact it will have on future generations is a clear reminder of his broader vision for a positive legacy both on and off the court.

With the support of his manager Alex Vittur and F1’s Stefano Domenicali on the board, the Jannik Sinner Foundation is poised to become a significant force in the world of sports philanthropy. The foundation’s work will undoubtedly inspire countless young athletes and students, just as Sinner’s own career continues to inspire millions around the world.