Jannik Sinner might have lost the opportunity to win a second successive US Open title but he is surely winning hearts at the China Open. Ahead of his opening-round clash with Marin Cilic, the Italian star took part in an engaging fan event hosted by Nike. Joining him on court was Emma Raducanu, whose presence added even more excitement to the lively occasion.
Emma Raducanu and Jannik Sinner Unite for a Standout Nike Experience
Jannik Sinner is returning to the China Open 2025 as the top seed and one of the favourites. Last year, he also reached the final in Beijing but lost to Carlos Alcaraz in a tight three-set match. Notable competitors this year include World No. 3 Alexander Zverev, Lorenzo Musetti, Karen Khachanov, Jakub Menšík, Andrey Rublev and Daniil Medvedev.
Ahead of his tournament-opener the ATP 500 event, the 24-year-old participated in a fun event organised by Nike. The format involved tossing a sponge dice with different conditions to play on each face of it. As Emma Raducanu took tried her luck, the duo was exposed to a challenge of jumping each time they hit a ball, while avoiding regular forehands and backhands.
Match Time 🤪#Nike #Sinner pic.twitter.com/0zODR5rhIA
— Chiara Fabbi (@CFabbi_Studio) September 23, 2025
Sinner also stepped forward to share his experience of the fun event in an Instagram story.
“Always good vibes in Beijing. Thanks to everyone who came out, had a great time on the Nike Just Do It Challenger court,” the Italian wrote.
Jannik Sinner’s story – Source: Instagram
Jannik Sinner’s association with Nike dates back to 2019, when, as a promising 17-year-old, he signed to wear their apparel and shoes on the court. He later upgraded that relationship in 2022, signing a long-term deal reported to be around $150 million over 10 years.
Sinner to Face a Major Challenge in the First Round of Beijing Campaign
Jannik Sinner enters the 2025 Beijing Open with an impressive record at this ATP 500 hard-court event, winning nine out of 10 matches so far. He won the tournament in 2023 and then reached the final again in 2024 before losing a thrilling contest to Carlos Alcaraz.
However, his opening match in 2025 poses a major challenge as he is scheduled to face Marin Čilić, a former finalist in Beijing (2011). Despite Sinner’s dominance at this event, the Croatian’s experience and past success in the draw mean the Italian cannot take anything for granted.
Looking at the broader draw, Sinner, the top seed this year, could meet wild card Zhang Zhizhen in the second round if he wins his opening match. Further ahead, his quarterfinal opponent might be Karen Khachanov, while Alex de Minaur and Jakub Menšík could be potential semifinal opponents.
MORE: Naomi Osaka Spotted Bonding With Jannik Sinner at China Open as Pair Prepare to Clinch 2nd Title
AloJapan.com