Jannik Sinner becomes 'Shanghai’s Terracotta Warrior' ahead of ATP Masters 2025 showdown

Jannik Sinner won only three ATP titles so far in 2025.

The 2025 Shanghai Masters has not even begun, yet Jannik Sinner has already become the center of attention, this time not for his tennis, but for a unique cultural tribute.

The defending champion and current world No. 2 has been immortalized as a terracotta warrior, with a life-sized statue unveiled in his honour before the he gets in action on October 4 against Daniel Altmaier in first round.

The sculpture, modeled in the style of the famed Terracotta Army of Xi’an, depicts Sinner with his signature fiery hair and recognizable features, clad in ancient warrior gear.

Blending Chinese heritage with modern tennis stardom, the tribute is for Sinner’s growing global influence and the admiration he commands well beyond the court.

Jannik Sinner was really excited witnessing the statue himself. With a laugh, he said, “It’s stronger than me,” before graciously accepting a miniature version of the statue as a keepsake. He also took photos of the statue in his phone and then posed for more with it.

The tradition of honoring champions in Shanghai with such statues is not new. Earlier, the they have honoured tennis legends like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Andy Murray. Now, Sinner joins that elite company, swiftly making his place among the sport’s biggest stars.

At the time of his victory in the 2024 Shanghai Masters, Jannik Sinner was 23 years, 1 month, and 28 days old, making him the youngest champion in the tournament’s history. That win was not any ordinary. It came after the Italian sensation defeated four-time Shanghai champion Novak Djokovic in the final. 

Sinner’s win denied Djokovic his 100th career singles title. The victory also marked Sinner’s fourth ATP Masters 1000 title and his seventh title of the season. As of now, Sinner has a total of 21 ATP titles.

Also Read: Jannik Sinner earns 200th hard-court victory, joins elite club of active players

Fresh off his victory at the China Open, where the 24-year-old swept aside American teenager Learner Tien in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, Jannik Sinner heads to Shanghai aiming for his fourth title of the year and to defend his crown at the Masters 1000 event.

The road, however, is not simple. The field is stacked with heavyweights, including Novak Djokovic, who is chasing his second title of the season, and Alexander Zverev, who is hungry to add valuable points during the Asian swing.

One piece of relief for Sinner is the absence of rival Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard, who recently lifted the Japan Open trophy, was forced to withdraw from Shanghai after sustaining an injury during that run.

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