Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner opens up on friendship with music legend Seal

One has claimed the world No. 1 ranking on the tennis court, the other has been claiming No. 1's on the music charts for over three decades.

On paper, there is little to connect four-time Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner with Seal, one of the most popular musical artists of the past 30+ years.

However, the two high-profile figures have formed an unlikely bond that transcends the demands of their respective careers.

Known for songs such as ‘Crazy' and ‘Kiss from a Rose', Seal was first spotted watching the reigning ATP world No. 1 at the US Open last year, and was in the Italian's player box during his three-set win over Taylor Fritz in the final.

And, the British music legend again joined Sinner's entourage at Wimbledon this past weekend, cheering the Italian on and embracing the 23-year-old after he beat Carlos Alcaraz in the championship match.

Speaking in an interview with Quotidiano Sportivo, the global chart-topper offered fascinating insight into his friendship with Sinner.

"We met four years ago at the US Open," revealed the music icon. "He said he liked my clothes, and I told him I loved his tennis. And we became friends.

"It's a privilege to watch him play. I like tennis, but that's not why I go to his matches. I go because he's an incredibly positive human being. Seeing this humility and empathy in such a young man is extremely rare. That makes him a very important role model.

"You know, the world is built on dreams; it's aspirations that drive people to strive for improvement. Jannik is someone who inspires those who watch him to become the best version of themselves.

"That's what I admire and respect most about him. He's the symbol, the quintessence of dreams, in the eyes of young and old alike. When I go to see him, I'm there for that reason, not for the tennis.

"He's a great player; he doesn't need me for the sporting side of things. Also because he's surrounded by incredible people."

Sinner has been supported by long-time coach Simone Vagnozzi for numerous years, with Darren Cahill coming in more recently to help guide the Italian to the very top of the sport.

The reigning Wimbledon, US Open, and Australian Open champion has also received invaluable support from his parents, Johann and Siglinde, who were both present for his triumph at SW19.

And, Seal revealed that he has also been able to form bonds and meet with the entirety of Sinner's team in recent months.

He added: "It's a privilege to be there next to Simone Vagnozzi or Darren Cahill, to be a small part of his world.

"When he said he wanted to become a better player and person, he used words you wouldn't expect from someone his age.

"His family's moral legacy also plays a part. You know what they say here: ‘If you follow one saint home, two other saints will open the door for you.'

"I met his father for a few minutes, and I can only imagine how great his parents are, what family means to him.

"You can see he has excellent parents, because he's polite to everyone, he treats famous people like his cleaning lady with the same kindness."

With his first title at Wimbledon secured, Sinner will now set his sights on a busy final few months of the season - which includes his title defence at the US Open.

And maybe, just maybe, he will again have the music icon rooting for him every step of the way.