An earthquake has shaken the world of tennis and sponsors! Jean-Frédéric Dufour, CEO of Rolex, left Italian and international fans openly with a shocking announcement: the intention of terminating the sponsorship contract with Jannik Sinner after his defeat in the final of Roland-Garros 2025 against Carlos Alcaraz. However, the surprising response of the world number one transformed the crisis into a national celebration, even earning the enthusiastic approval of Dufour. Here are the details of this dramatic chapter.
The Choc declaration of Dufour
The final, played on Sunday 8 June on Philippe-Charterier, saw Sinner sell in Alcaraz with the score of 6-4, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 after an exhausting match of over five hours. Immediately after, in an exclusive interview with a Swiss media, Dufour surprised everyone by declaring: “The performance of Jannik in Paris does not reflect the values of excellence that Rolex represents. We are evaluating the termination of our agreement with him.” These words have detonated a wave of disbelief, considering that Sinner, Rolex Ambassador since 2022, had been celebrated as the young face of the luxury brand.
Dufour’s decision seems linked to commercial pressure after the defeat, with some analysts suggesting that the company tried to avoid associations with an athlete who, despite his three Slam titles, has not yet conquered Roland-Garros. Italian fans, furious, flooded the social networks with protests: “Sinner is a champion, Rolex is wrong!”
Sinner’s surprising replica
Sinner’s response, however, overturned the situation. During an urgently organized press conference yesterday, the 23 -year -old from San Candido took the floor with a calm but determined tone: “I understand the disappointment of Rolex, but this defeat motivates me more. I propose to give my next prize pool to a fund for young Italian tennis players, and I hope that Rolex will join me in this project.” This declaration, which unites humility and vision, has left the audience open -mouthed, transforming a moment of crisis into an opportunity for redemption.
Sinner’s proposal, which includes the idea of collaborating with Rolex to finance tennis academies, has received immediate oven. The Italian fans exulted, with comments on X as “Jannik is a national hero!” And “he saved his contract and our pride!”
Dufour’s approval
Caught by surprise from Sinner’s maturity, Dufour had to reconsider his position. In a statement released a few hours ago, the CEO said: “I was impressed by the reaction of Jannik. His proposal reflects Rolex’s values, and we are pleased to support it in this initiative. Our contract remains intact.” This voltfacce has transformed the scandal into a victory for Sinner, with the Swiss brand that now sees in the player a symbol of resilience and generosity.
The Italian Tennis Federation (FIT) has enthusiastically welcomed the announcement, announcing a partnership with Rolex and Sinner to launch the “Jannik Fondo” by the end of the year. “This is a day of pride for Italy,” commented a spokesman.
A legacy of redemption
The story has strengthened Sinner’s reputation as not only an elite athlete, but also a charismatic leader. His ability to transform a threat into an opportunity has conquered fans’ hearts and even Dufour’s admiration, which promised renewed support. With Wimbledon upon us, Sinner arrives at this controversy with a new determination, while Rolex is preparing to capitalize this positive narrative. This “scandal” has left a legacy of unity and hope for Italian tennis.
