The encounter offered a rare glimpse into the life of a global sports phenomenon, especially one who has recently ascended to the pinnacle of his sport. Sinner, who currently holds the men’s world No. 1 singles tennis ranking, was aboard the Explora III not just as a passenger, but in his capacity as a global brand ambassador for Explora Journeys. His role extends to helping shape the luxury cruise company’s athletic and wellness routines for guests, an alignment that speaks volumes about the evolving demands of elite sports and the burgeoning luxury travel market. The timing of this unique journey placed Sinner in a fascinating transitional period. Fresh off a period of remarkable success, including deep runs at prestigious tournaments and securing his position as the world’s top player, he was also keenly focused on his quest for further Grand Slam titles, including the upcoming US Open. For an athlete whose life is predominantly spent on the road, hopping from one tournament city to another, the prospect of a different vantage point from the sea is not merely welcome, but profoundly calming. "It’s so nice to be far away from everything—hidden in a way," he shared, articulating a desire for respite that many can relate to, but few experience with the intensity of a world-renowned athlete. During his time aboard Explora III, S Sinner graciously sat down with Condé Nast Traveler to discuss a myriad of topics, from his preferences for sea travel to his ultimate comfort food on the road, and the deep longing he holds for time spent at his parents’ home in South Tyrol, nestled within the majestic Italian Dolomites. He also offered a pragmatic piece of advice for fans who might spot him dashing through an airport terminal: sometimes, it’s best to resist the urge to stop him for a selfie, a small but significant detail underscoring the relentless pace of his professional life. An Underrated Italian Escape: The Tuscan Hills When asked about regions in Italy he feels he hasn’t explored enough, Sinner’s gaze drifted, contemplating the rich tapestry of his home country. "In Italy, it’s hard to go wrong, because we have everything: the sea, we have mountains, we have hills," he mused. "But I think Tuscany, specifically the Tuscan Hills, is a little bit underrated. It’s very beautiful, with a lot of sunshine, a lot of nature, and a lot of peace. I’ve been there once, but I would love to go back some more." This preference highlights a common thread in Sinner’s travel philosophy: a quest for tranquility amidst natural beauty, a stark contrast to the high-octane environments of professional tennis. The Tuscan Hills, with their rolling vineyards, cypress-lined avenues, and medieval villages, offer a serene escape, celebrated for their authentic Italian charm, culinary traditions, and art history. For an athlete constantly under the global spotlight, the quietude of these landscapes provides a much-needed mental reset, an opportunity to disconnect and recharge in a setting renowned for its slower pace of life and inherent elegance. The Incomparable Retreat: Home in South Tyrol However, no destination, no matter how idyllic, can truly rival the profound draw of home for Sinner. "Has to be to my parents’ home [in the German-speaking province of South Tyrol] in northern Italy, to be honest," he stated with heartfelt conviction. "Because I left home when I was around 13 years of age. So every time I come back to see my parents or family, it’s something really, really special. It’s what always helps me rest and recover as well. I don’t go a lot. Maybe two or three times a year and, yeah, it’s never enough." Sinner’s early departure from his family home in Sexten, South Tyrol, to pursue his tennis dreams at Riccardo Piatti’s academy in Bordighera, Italy, is a pivotal chapter in his life story. This sacrifice, made at such a young age, underscores the emotional significance of his returns. South Tyrol itself is a region of breathtaking alpine landscapes, a unique cultural melting pot where Italian and Austrian traditions blend seamlessly. Nestled within the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a dramatic backdrop of jagged peaks, pristine valleys, and a distinct culinary identity. For Sinner, these visits are more than just a trip; they are a vital anchor, a return to his roots that provides unparalleled mental and emotional recovery, essential for sustaining the immense pressures of his career. The infrequency of these visits only intensifies their value, making each moment spent with family a priceless commodity. Fueling the Champion: Comfort Meals on the Road and at Home An athlete’s diet is rigorously controlled, but even the world’s best indulge in comfort food. Sinner’s choices reveal a blend of practical necessity and sentimental preference. "We need a lot of carbohydrates, so I would say pasta… Probably a rigatoni, which is my favorite pasta shape, with some tomato sauce, and some salad as well," he shared regarding his post-match meal on the road. This choice reflects the fundamental dietary requirements of a tennis player, where high-energy carbohydrates are crucial for replenishing glycogen stores after intense physical exertion. Rigatoni, a robust pasta shape, paired with a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce, provides sustained energy and aligns with classic Italian cuisine, offering a touch of home even when thousands of miles away. When he’s on a break and able to return to his parents, his comfort food shifts to a distinctly South Tyrolean delight. "When I’m on a break from playing, and I go home to my parents, it’s a wiener schnitzel, this Austrian dish which is a crispy fried veal cutlet. That’s my comfort food." This choice perfectly illustrates the dual cultural heritage of South Tyrol, where Austrian influences are as strong as Italian ones. Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet, is a classic of Austrian cuisine, representing a taste of his specific regional identity and the nostalgic flavors of childhood. The Essentials of Travel: Carry-on and the Elusive Mattress For a professional athlete, travel packing becomes a finely tuned art. Sinner’s carry-on essentials are surprisingly minimalist. "An iPad for downloading movies or a television series, AirPods because I like to listen to music, and that’s it really," he revealed. "I’m actually a good sleeper, so during flights I sleep a lot and the time goes way faster." These items are typical for modern travelers, serving as tools for entertainment and personal space, crucial for maintaining sanity during long journeys and frequent transitions. However, his ultimate travel wish speaks volumes about the physical demands of his sport. "The one thing I wish I could carry on my travels is my mattress! For us tennis players, it’s very difficult because we are constantly changing beds, as well as mattresses; every tournament we sleep somewhere new. So I would say having the same bed or mattress would be so good." This seemingly simple desire underscores a critical aspect of athletic performance: consistent, restorative sleep. Elite athletes require optimal recovery, and an inconsistent sleep environment can disrupt sleep quality, leading to muscle soreness, reduced cognitive function, and increased injury risk. The quest for a familiar mattress is not just about comfort; it’s about optimizing his physical and mental readiness, highlighting a significant logistical challenge for globe-trotting professionals. The Allure of the Open Sea: Explora Journeys Sinner’s experience aboard the Explora III provided a fresh perspective on travel. "I mean [the Explora III is] very, very elegant. And the quality of the food… I’ve eaten here now for a couple of days, and it’s really, really good. I think this basically is like an amazing hotel. A hotel that moves around the world. Yesterday we were in Genova, and today we are in Marseille." His description of the ship as a "moving hotel" perfectly encapsulates the essence of luxury cruising, offering seamless travel between destinations without the constant packing and unpacking. Explora Journeys, part of the MSC Group, positions itself in the ultra-luxury segment, focusing on immersive "Ocean Journeys" that blend sophisticated design, exceptional dining, and a focus on well-being. The Explora III, one of the newest additions to their fleet, embodies this ethos, providing spacious suites, multiple dining venues, and a tranquil atmosphere. Beyond the luxurious amenities, the sea journey offers Sinner something more profound: escape. "You know—as tennis players—we get so much attention all the time, and are always under pressure to perform. And of course everyone handles it differently, but I always like to step away from the limelight. Back when I was young I would’ve never thought about escaping to the middle of the sea, but it’s somewhere where I feel like you’re kind of untouchable, and you can switch off your phone. And that to me is priceless." This insight reveals the immense psychological burden of constant public scrutiny. The ocean, with its vastness and isolation, provides a unique sanctuary, a place where Sinner can genuinely disconnect, recharge, and reclaim a sense of privacy that is rare in his daily life. The ability to "switch off your phone" in an environment that feels "untouchable" is, for a world No. 1, a luxury beyond material possessions. Onboard Escapes and Hotel Preferences Even on a ship designed for relaxation, Sinner has his preferred hiding spots. "Well, there’s the amazing paddle court upstairs on deck 14. But being on a ship like this, I might get away to one of the swimming pools or perhaps a jacuzzi." Paddle tennis, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, offers a fun, social, and slightly less impactful alternative to his primary sport, appealing to his athletic nature. The pools and jacuzzis, standard features of luxury cruises, become more than just amenities; they are extensions of his personal wellness and recovery routine. His preference for hotels mirrors his desire for maritime tranquility. "Quiet and calm. I don’t like a hotel that’s too busy and full of people. And I’m kind of strict about that. We play so much tennis a year and recovery periods are so important, even if it’s a short one. To perform well, you need to be more rested." This underscores the critical importance of a peaceful environment for an athlete’s recovery. The ATP tour is grueling, demanding peak physical and mental condition for months on end. A quiet hotel room allows for undisturbed rest, aiding muscle repair, mental clarity, and overall well-being, directly impacting his performance on the court. Wellness Rituals and the Pursuit of Longevity Sinner’s dedication to his craft extends to his wellness rituals, some of which are far from relaxing. "It’s more a wellness ritual. After a tennis match it’s always an ice bath for me, which I know is not that relaxing but it’s important. And then of course the jacuzzi, which releases tension and relaxes the muscles." Ice baths are a well-established practice in elite sports, used to reduce inflammation, minimize muscle soreness, and accelerate recovery by constricting blood vessels. The subsequent jacuzzi session provides a therapeutic contrast, promoting blood flow and deep relaxation, crucial for muscle regeneration. His focus on "longevity" is a testament to the evolving landscape of professional sports. "Longevity is always top of mind as a player, and it’s something you know you can work towards. There’s so many new tools, and you see new routines on social media all the time that you think you might try out." Modern athletes increasingly prioritize career longevity through advanced recovery protocols, nutrition, and injury prevention strategies. The integration of science, technology, and personalized wellness plans is paramount, reflecting a holistic approach to athletic excellence that extends far beyond just training on the court. Beyond Tennis: A Passion for Formula One Away from the tennis court, Sinner’s passion for another high-speed sport shines through. "It has to be Formula One. I’m a big F1 fan, so I like to, if I have the time, go to races. Because my schedule is very busy, it’s tough to do, but I do enjoy watching a race." The allure of Formula One, with its blend of cutting-edge engineering, extreme speed, and strategic depth, resonates with many athletes who appreciate peak performance and precision. His ultimate F1 dream race is particularly poignant given his current residence. "The qualifying race in Monaco would be really cool, especially since I live there—it’s a bucket-list race and qualifying is always the most exciting part. I haven’t been there in person yet, but it’s on my list." The Monaco Grand Prix is legendary, a street circuit famed for its glamour and unforgiving nature. For Sinner, living in Monaco and experiencing the unique atmosphere of the race, especially the intense qualifying sessions where drivers push their cars to the absolute limit for pole position, represents a significant personal aspiration that, like many of his desires, is often sidelined by the relentless demands of his own profession. The Simple Comfort of a Couch and Rapid-Fire Travel Insights Sinner’s favorite hotel (or cruise) amenity is surprisingly understated: a comfortable couch. "I’m someone who needs a great couch in my room. I’m a big couch lover, and sometimes I fall asleep at the couch and don’t move to my bed even though it’s three or four meters away. So that’s definitely something that makes me very happy to have. It makes me feel ‘at home’ in a certain way." This simple preference speaks volumes about his need for psychological comfort and a sense of familiarity amidst constant change. A good couch offers a personal space for relaxation, reading, or simply decompressing, acting as a crucial element in creating a temporary "home away from home." Finally, a rapid-fire round of travel preferences offered quick insights into his practical habits: Arriving at the airport early or just in time? "Just in time. Late enough that I nearly miss my flight." This perhaps reflects a busy schedule, a desire to maximize every minute, or even a playful streak, though certainly not a strategy recommended for most travelers. Aisle seat or window seat? "Window always, so I can rest my head." A practical choice for comfort and privacy, allowing him to lean against the cabin wall and potentially block out distractions for better sleep. Restaurant or room service? "It depends on scenarios, to be honest, but I like restaurants a little bit more. Gets you out of the room." This indicates a desire for social interaction and a change of scenery, breaking the monotony of hotel rooms, even if it’s just for a meal. Carry-on or checked luggage? "I need to go with checked because we carry so much stuff, but I would love to travel only with carry-on—my backpack, and that’s it. That’s a dream." This final answer perfectly encapsulates the dichotomy of his life: the reality of an elite athlete who must travel with extensive equipment and gear, contrasting with the aspirational desire for simple, unencumbered travel, mirroring his yearning for peace and freedom from the demands of his extraordinary career. Post navigation Beyond the Trails: Seven Extraordinary Ways to Experience Fall Foliage Across the U.S. How to know where to start, according to a local.
