“He is the person I want to choose” The president of the International Olympic Committee (CI), Thomas Bach, made all Italy explode with joy when he publicly announced that Jannik Sinner will be the first candidate chosen by him to turn on the Olympic torch for the 2026 Olympics. The smiling reaction of Jannik Sinner, followed by a motivation of refusal made up of only 12 words, left the fans stunned. President Bach nodded with approval.
The president of the International Olympic Committee (CI), Thomas Bach, shook the whole of Italy of joy by announcing that Jannik Sinner would be the first candidate chosen to turn on the Olympic flame for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The news aroused enthusiasm among Italian fans, who see in Sinner not only a great talent in tennis, but also a symbolic figure for the future of sport. However, Sinner’s reaction surprised everyone, showing a maturity and an awareness that not many expected.
With a calm smile, Sinner replied to Bach’s proposal with a short declaration of twelve words: “I’m sorry, but I can’t, I’m too young to do this.” This immediate refusal left fans and experts speechless, but behind those words there was a profound reflection that added a further level of admiration for the young tennis player.
Sinner explained that although the idea of turning on the Olympic flame was something that many athletes dream, he felt that his young age could have aroused controversy. A young tennis player like him, at his age, would have been seen by many as too young for such a significant role, and did not want to create discomfort or divisions among his supporters and critics. His decision to refuse such an extraordinary opportunity revealed a great sense of responsibility and maturity, despite his young age.
Thomas Bach, visibly surprised by Sinner’s response, fully respected his decision, admiring his awareness. However, the president of the IOC also indicated that he would give Sinner the time to reflect further on this proposal. “You have every right to decide for yourself,” Bach said, “but think about how special this moment would be for you and Italy.”
This episode highlighted not only the extraordinary talent of Jannik Sinner in tennis, but also his character and his ability to make weighted decisions, even when it comes to choices that could seem obvious for others. The young tennis player has shown that although many see him as a future Sport star, he is also a boy who thinks maturity about his role in society.
His decision, albeit unexpected, aroused admiration between his fans and among the experts, who see in him a brilliant future not only as an athlete, but also as a symbol of integrity and responsibility. The story of Sinner, young and already so aware, will certainly continue to inspire future generations, showing that, sometimes, the real courage lies in making difficult choices, even when the temptation to accept a great opportunity is strong.