World number one tennis player Jannik Sinner has terminated his contract with technology company Astronomer, after their CEO was caught having an affair with an employee at a music event.
“We stand by and protect mothers, no matter what,” Sinner’s team announced in a statement announcing the termination of its contract with Astronomer. The company’s CEO, Andy Byron, was caught cheating with his subordinate Kristin Cabot while attending a Coldplay music festival on July 16. The couple’s “kiss cam” video later exploded on social media, forcing Byron to resign.
Sinner has not officially signed with Astronomer , but is reportedly close to a $24 million deal to promote the company’s products. The deal was touted by CEO Byron himself, before his affair was revealed. Astronomer is a technology company that has pioneered many areas of data management. It has been one of the best-performing companies in the industry in recent years.
After rejecting Astronomer, Sinner also announced a re-engagement with fitness coach Umberto Ferrara, who he fired after a doping scandal last year. “Ferrara has played a key role in Sinner’s development over the years. His return will contribute to the continuity and high performance we aim for,” said a statement from Sinner’s team.
Ferrara has been Sinner’s fitness coach since 2022. After leaving the team last year, he teamed up with former Wimbledon runner-up Matteo Berrettini. Sinner said he consulted the team before inviting Ferrara back. The world number one wants to be in perfect shape for the hard-court season later in the year, with two major titles to defend: the US Open and the ATP Finals.
Sinner (right) and coach Ferrara at Roland Garros 2024 in Paris, France. Photo: Reuters
Sinner has had a successful year, despite a three-month doping layoff. He has reached the finals of all three Grand Slams this year, winning the Australian Open and Wimbledon. His win over Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon showed his all-round game on the weakest surface. He also came close to beating his Spanish rival at Roland Garros, on his opponent’s preferred surface.
“We want to have the best second half of the season,” coach Darren Cahill said of the Sinner coaching team’s task in the final months of the year. “Hard courts have always been Sinner’s strength, but they are also a surface with many surprises. If you are not well prepared, you will pay the price.”
