Lindsey Vonn says Jannik Sinner's skiing background helps his movement at Wimbledon.
What happened?
Lindsey Vonn, the top World Cup downhiller last season, commented on Jannik Sinner's skiing background, stating it aids his tennis game.
Sinner, currently defending his title at Wimbledon, was a top junior skier in Italy before focusing on tennis.
He won a national skiing championship at age 8 and placed second in Italian nationals at 12.
Why it matters for Lindsey Vonn
Vonn pointed to Sinner's ability to stay in balance, saying he has an amazing kinesthetic sense, which is essential in both sports.
This sense allows him to move fluidly and in sync, despite his tall and lanky 6-foot-3 frame.
Fellow tennis player Casper Ruud agreed, stating Sinner's movement is the most impressive thing about him.
What comes next?
Vonn, who shares a common sponsor with Sinner, once skied with the tennis star and enjoyed his fluid and smooth skiing style.
Many elite skiers, including Vonn's fellow Olympic champion Bode Miller, include tennis in their summer training regimen.
Vonn loves playing tennis, as it helps her footwork, mental strength, and general athleticism.
She knows several skiers who play tennis as a form of cross-training, which pushes them physically and mentally.
Background
Sinner started competing in tennis after realizing he was too light to compete in downhill skiing.
He said tennis is more accessible and less dangerous than skiing, where one mistake can lead to elimination.
Vonn, who suffered a horrific crash at the Milan Cortina Olympics in February, resulting in a severely fractured left leg, appreciates the mental and physical challenges of tennis.
Ruud, who was also a skier as a kid, acknowledged Sinner's movement but doesn't believe his skiing background is the sole reason for his agility.
On 18 June, Sinner began his Wimbledon title defense, showcasing his impressive movement and tennis skills.
As the tournament progresses, fans will be watching to see how Sinner's unique background and skills will aid him in his quest for another title.
With his skiing-honed kinesthetic sense and fluid movement, Sinner is a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court.
Lindsey Vonn's comments highlight the interesting connection between skiing and tennis, and how athletes like Sinner can leverage their diverse backgrounds to achieve success in their respective sports.