Jannik Sinner’s advice to Alex Michelsen: ‘Don’t say you’re sorry’ ATP Tour

next generation impact

My Influence: “Don’t Say Sorry,” Sinner’s Advice to Michaelson…

Americans are full of praise for compatriot Nakajima

December 11, 2024

Brandon Nakashima and Jannik Sinner. These two names resonate deeply with #NextGenATP star Alex Michelsen.

The young American spoke with admiration of the impact the pair had on his journey, drawing inspiration from Nakajima’s steady talent as a fellow Californian and 2022 Next Generation ATP Finals champion, while recounting the lessons he learned from working with There are valuable lessons learned from Sinner’s ordeal, including a memorable piece of advice the Italian shared after this year’s game in Cincinnati.

In our latest My Influences feature, Michelsen delves into the figures who have shaped his game and mentality on and off the court. From the tactical insights of top pros to the unwavering support and guidance of his tennis-playing parents, Michelson provides a compelling account of the forces that fueled his rise in the tennis world.

Which former NextGen champion do you most identify with?
I’d say probably Brandon Nakashima, because he’s a Southern California boy like me. His backhand is sick. Very well played and very solid in every aspect. I like to think of myself as strong. So, I feel like we’re similar in that way. I remember watching from home when he won in 2022. I’m actually really good friends with his cousin and brother, so it was really cool to see him win. I think I would definitely get a little bit of inspiration from him before I went there, a little bit of Southern California inspiration.

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When did you meet Brandon?
I’ve seen him at most games and he’s very friendly, which is pretty cool. I mean, growing up, we all followed his progress. He went to college for a while and then turned pro. I’ve been competing in the same competition. We don’t spend much time together. But by the way, he was just being nice. He’s a bit of a quiet guy. There’s nothing wrong with that. I like him very much.Among other former champions, do you give Alcaraz, Sinner or Tsitsipas a hard time?

I’ve played Sinner twice now. I was very close to him in Cincinnati and he absolutely blew me away at the U.S. Open. But I remember we talked a lot in Cincinnati because obviously he won that game. I actually competed in doubles and made it to the finals. So I see him every day in the locker room. We started chatting. He actually told me that I said sorry too much because I was trying to catch him. He knew I was after him. He said, “This is a good show, don’t say sorry.” He’s actually a super nice guy. Unfortunately, I’m 0-2 against him. But I guess it doesn’t matter because he’s the No. 1 player in the world.

Who has influenced you the most?
Both my parents played tennis in college. They inspired me to play. Before I knew it, they had the racket in my hand. When I was two years old, they put a racket in my hand. I’m glad they started training me from a young age. You have to start playing tennis from a young age or you won’t become great. They are all very good college players. I hit the ball with my mom almost every day until I was 15 or 16 years old. Some funky shots like this. I think the two of them blend really well. I’ve done this.

And my coach Jay. Jay and I have been together for four years. Before I had any ATP points, he actually told me, you know, ‘Kid, you’re going to be in the top 100 and become a professional tennis player’. Where I am right now means a lot to me. These are definitely the biggest influences in my life.

What have you learned on tour this year?
This tour is absolutely brutal. You lose every week. I haven’t won a race yet this year. I had a match point in the Newport finals and got an ace on match point. It’s been a great week. I feel like I won a lot last year because my world ranking went from 600 to 97. I won a lot of games in Futures and Challenges. Even if you don’t win every week, you still win a lot of games. This year I think I’m probably 50/50. I probably have the same number of wins and losses. Going through this for the first time was really tough mentally. I think being a good loser, as lame as it sounds, you have to be a good loser because this is going to happen all the time.

Everyone is nice. Anyone can beat anyone in the top 100 on a given day. It’s difficult here. I think that’s the most important thing I’ve learned. Of course a little more patience is required. Be patient and wait for the results. Be patient when competing. I feel like I’ve grown a lot this year. It’s been a great first year. Got a lot of great experiences. I’m doing great. I’ve surpassed my goal of top 50. So I’m happy about that.