In a rare and emotional interview that has taken the tennis world by storm, Jannik Sinner’s father, Johann (Hanspeter) Sinner, has opened up for the first time about his son’s relationship with Danish model Laila Hasanovic.

The shocking revelation—”That girl has influenced and motivated my son even when they barely knew each other”—has left fans reeling, painting a picture of a romance that began with skepticism but evolved into heartfelt acceptance.

Johann, a longtime chef from South Tyrol, Italy, along with Jannik’s mother Siglinde, initially struggled to embrace Hasanovic. The couple, who have always prioritized their son’s grounded upbringing in the Dolomites, reportedly had reservations about the high-profile model entering Jannik’s life.

Sources close to the family describe early tensions as the relationship blossomed in mid-2025, amid Jannik’s dominant season that saw him claim multiple titles and solidify his World No. 1 ranking.

Yet, witnessing Hasanovic’s unwavering support transformed their views. She was first spotted in Jannik’s player box at major tournaments like Roland Garros and Wimbledon, quietly cheering during intense matches.

By the Vienna Open in October 2025, the turning point arrived: Hasanovic sat beside Johann and Siglinde in the stands, chatting amiably as cameras captured smiles and what appeared to be an official family introduction.

Jannik’s on-court victory speech that day—thanking “my girlfriend” alongside his family—confirmed the romance publicly, with Hasanovic beaming from the crowd.

Johann’s candid words highlight the turbulence: “He and Jannik’s mother had never accepted Laila, but after seeing Hasanovic’s actions toward Sinner, they changed their minds.” Her presence during Jannik’s challenging moments, including his recovery from injuries and the pressures of fame, proved pivotal.

Fans have noted how she motivated him subtly—from offseason getaways in Copenhagen to festive holiday shoots—helping the 24-year-old Italian maintain balance amid a grueling schedule.

In return, the family endured “days of tension,” navigating the spotlight that comes with dating a celebrity influencer. Hasanovic, 25, with her Bosnian roots and successful modeling career (campaigns for Armani Beauty and Tommy Hilfiger), brought glamour but also scrutiny.

Rumors swirled early on, fueled by viral moments like Jannik’s phone wallpaper allegedly featuring her image during the US Open. Social media exploded with speculation, but the couple remained private until Vienna.

The interview’s bombshell came with Johann’s disclosure of an “unusual request” from Hasanovic’s family before a major tournament: “They forced my son to…” The ellipsis has ignited frenzy online, with theories ranging from cultural traditions to pre-match rituals.

While details remain guarded, insiders suggest it involved a family commitment that tested Jannik’s boundaries but ultimately strengthened bonds.

This revelation humanizes the Sinner family, known for their humility. Johann and Siglinde, who met working at a ski lodge, instilled in Jannik the work ethic that propelled him from junior skiing prodigy to tennis superstar.

They rarely attend all tournaments—Siglinde often stays home due to anxiety—but their presence at key events, now including Hasanovic, signals full integration.

The relationship has flourished publicly since. Post-ATP Finals victory in November 2025, Jannik and Laila enjoyed cozy Copenhagen trips, Christmas markets, and even the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix paddock.

Wholesome moments abound: shared pet dog Snoopy photos, gelato outings in Monte Carlo, and Laila’s festive Tommy Hilfiger campaigns timed perfectly with Jannik’s triumphs.

Fans worldwide celebrate the couple’s authenticity. Jannik, once linked to fellow players like Anna Kalinskaya (split earlier in 2025), has found stability in Hasanovic. Her past relationship with F1 driver Mick Schumacher adds intrigue, but current vibes are purely positive—mutual support, low-key romance, and family approval.

Yet, witnessing Hasanovic’s unwavering support transformed their views. She was first spotted in Jannik’s player box at major tournaments like Roland Garros and Wimbledon, quietly cheering during intense matches.

By the Vienna Open in October 2025, the turning point arrived: Hasanovic sat beside Johann and Siglinde in the stands, chatting amiably as cameras captured smiles and what appeared to be an official family introduction.

Jannik’s on-court victory speech that day—thanking “my girlfriend” alongside his family—confirmed the romance publicly, with Hasanovic beaming from the crowd.

Johann’s candid words highlight the turbulence: “He and Jannik’s mother had never accepted Laila, but after seeing Hasanovic’s actions toward Sinner, they changed their minds.” Her presence during Jannik’s challenging moments, including his recovery from injuries and the pressures of fame, proved pivotal.

Fans have noted how she motivated him subtly—from offseason getaways in Copenhagen to festive holiday shoots—helping the 24-year-old Italian maintain balance amid a grueling schedule.

Johann’s interview underscores themes of growth and acceptance. From initial reluctance to embracing the “moments of glory” Hasanovic brings, the Sinners have navigated change gracefully. As Jannik eyes more Grand Slams in 2026, this off-court story reminds us: behind the forehands and titles lies a young man motivated by love.

Fans worldwide celebrate the couple’s authenticity. Jannik, once linked to fellow players like Anna Kalinskaya (split earlier in 2025), has found stability in Hasanovic. Her past relationship with F1 driver Mick Schumacher adds intrigue, but current vibes are purely positive—mutual support, low-key romance, and family approval.

Johann’s interview underscores themes of growth and acceptance. From initial reluctance to embracing the “moments of glory” Hasanovic brings, the Sinners have navigated change gracefully. As Jannik eyes more Grand Slams in 2026, this off-court story reminds us: behind the forehands and titles lies a young man motivated by love.