Monte Carlo, a principality synonymous with high-stakes glamour, superyachts, and the roar of Formula 1 engines, often seems an unlikely backdrop for the mundane. Yet, for global sports icons like Jannik Sinner, it offers a peculiar sanctuary. Away from the blinding flash of grand slam victories and the relentless scrutiny of the professional tennis circuit, even the world`s top players yearn for a taste of the ordinary. And for Sinner, that taste comes in a cone, from a local gelateria that has quietly become a window into the private lives of the tennis elite.
The Gelato Confidante: A Scoop of Local Insight
Nestled in the tranquil La Condamine district, just beneath the residence of Jannik Sinner and his girlfriend Laila Hasanovic, lies “Santo Gelato.” This unassuming establishment, owned by Roberto and Nicoletta Stampfl, recently found itself in the spotlight when Nicoletta shared insights into her most famous clientele with the Italian weekly magazine “Dipiù.” Her observations offer a rare glimpse beyond the court, into the simple, everyday interactions that define a champion`s downtime.
Sinner`s Sweet Spot: Pistachio and Amarena
According to Nicoletta, Jannik Sinner is no casual gelato consumer; he’s a connoisseur. He approaches his dessert decisions with a methodical air, much like dissecting an opponent`s serve, tasting before he commits. His chosen champions? The classic Italian duo of pistachio and amarena (sour cherry). This revelation paints a picture of a man who appreciates tradition and proven quality, whether in his game or his dessert choices.
Laila Hasanovic, his girlfriend, receives equally warm remarks from the gelateria owner. Described as “gentle, beautiful, very simple in her demeanor and dress,” Laila embodies an “acqua e sapone” (natural, fresh-faced) charm that complements Sinner`s understated personality. Their conversations, conducted in English, suggest a modern, international relationship thriving quietly in the heart of Monaco.
The pair`s pre-departure ritual before the American hard-court season included purchasing a kilogram tub of their favorite flavors. Nicoletta recalls them patiently waiting outside the shop, a mundane scene that underscores their desire for ordinary moments – a stark contrast to the extraordinary pressures of their public lives.
Monte Carlo: The Unsung Sanctuary for Sporting Legends
Monte Carlo, for all its opulence, serves a unique purpose for elite athletes. It offers discretion, a sense of privacy, and a community of peers who understand the demands of global fame. This environment allows stars like Sinner to seamlessly transition from headline-maker to neighborhood regular. Here, a trip to the local gelateria isn`t a paparazzi event but simply a stroll to satisfy a craving, a brief respite from the relentless spotlight.
A Grand Slam of Gelato Lovers: From Nadal to Medvedev
“Santo Gelato” isn`t just Sinner`s sweet escape; it`s a regular stop for a roster of tennis luminaries. Nicoletta fondly remembers a particular, rather effusive customer: none other than the legendary Rafael Nadal. “He wanted to learn how to make gelato,” she recounts, “asking my husband for our secrets. An exquisite, truly sympathetic person.” Nadal`s infectious enthusiasm, a trait as famous as his forehand, even extended to the art of artisanal ice cream.
Comparing the two, Nicoletta suggests Sinner is “on the right track” regarding his geniality, but playfully declares, “another Nadal will never be in the circuit of great tennis players” in terms of sheer charisma. Other prominent figures like Bolelli, Medvedev, and Dimitrov also frequent the establishment, reinforcing its status as an unofficial social hub for the tennis community.
This insight reminds us that beneath the competitive intensity, these athletes are individuals with distinct personalities and simple human desires. The gelateria, in this context, becomes more than just a place to buy dessert; it`s a quiet stage where the human side of fame is briefly, and sweetly, revealed.
The Paradox of Privacy in the Public Eye
The beauty of these interactions lies in their ordinary nature, yet the irony is not lost. A champion seeking normalcy by stepping out for gelato finds his private preferences broadcast through a well-meaning interview. It highlights the peculiar paradox of modern celebrity: the yearning for a quiet life, often found in seemingly mundane activities, can itself become a newsworthy event.
For Jannik Sinner, whether he`s serving an ace on court or selecting a scoop of amarena, his life remains a captivating blend of the extraordinary and the delightfully, undeniably ordinary. And for those of us observing, it`s a sweet reminder that even the greatest among us find joy in the simplest of pleasures.
Elton Marrow