'I'm a bit drunk': Jannik Sinner's candid Wimbledon ball of champions confession wins hearts

Linda Nosková and Jannik Sinner take part in the traditional winners’ dance. (Photo credit: Wimbledon) Jannik Sinner, fresh from successfully defending his Wimbledon crown, swapped his racket for a tuxedo and his trademark composure for a dose of candid humor, delighting fans with a candid confession that quickly became one of the most talked about moments of the Masters Ball.The world number one, who defeated Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon final, charmed guests at the traditional Champions Ball with a series of light-hearted confessions, admitting he was “a bit drunk” as he reflected on his mother’s nervous reactions during the title clash. The Italian’s candid remarks, along with another amusing revelation about repeatedly failing his motorcycle driving test, added an unforgettable off-court chapter to his latest Grand Slam triumph.

‘I’m a little drunk’

Sinner arrived at the Champions Ball in a classic black tuxedo before taking part in the traditional winners’ dance alongside women’s singles champion Linda Noskova.During an on-stage interview, he was asked about his mother Siglinde, who walked out of Center Court several times during the thrilling Wimbledon final because she found it too stressful to watch.Sinner replied with a smile, “How come? I don’t know. I’m a little drunk, so… I try to speak very simply and with the right words. But no, mom left the stadium a few times, which is normal. I’m not a parent yet, so I don’t know how it feels when everyone plays there. But at the end of the day, we can try very hard to see and be happy that they’re here. Happy too.”The honest but witty response drew laughter and applause, with fans praising the Italian’s genuineness after another memorable Wimbledon campaign.WATCH:

From Wimbledon glory to motorcycle crashes

Sinner also made the audience laugh when he revealed that his quest to get a motorcycle license was far less successful than his exploits on the tennis court.“I failed four times. I failed one more time before I came here. Maybe next year you’ll ask me the same question,” he joked.A light-hearted evening capped a remarkable fortnight for the 24-year-old, who bounced back from an early exit from the French Open to defend his Wimbledon title with a 6-7(7), 7-6(2), 6-3, 6-4 victory over Alexander Zverev.Sinner later thanked his coaching staff on Instagram, writing: “Blood, sweat and (happy) tears! This team pushes me, challenges me and never lets me down… Can’t believe we did it again.” The triumph was historic on several fronts. Sinner became only the 10th man to successfully defend his Wimbledon singles title, captured his fifth Grand Slam crown, recorded his 100th Grand Slam match victory and extended his winning streak over Zverev to 10 matches.