Vogue chats to the world number one tennis player and global ambassador for Gucci, who also reveals what he always carries in his duffel bag in the second drop of the brand's holiday campaign – following Jessica Chastain's inaugural chapter
Jannik Sinner's "sliding doors" moment, the one in which – to put it bluntly – a small decision or event totally changes the course of a life, happened to him when he was still very young. Naturally inclined towards sports, Sinner excelled especially in two: tennis and skiing. He had to choose; the rest is history. But there is one detail that cannot go unnoticed: in every story, interview and commentary, Sinner never misses an opportunity to mention that it was (also) the mountains that raised him.
That child who shone on the ski slopes still exists within him. So it's a full circle marked by the second chapter of the Gucci Gift campaign titled 'To The Mountains' and featuring the world's number one tennis player (who was honoured on November 11th at the Inalpi Arena in Turin) and global ambassador of the brand as its protagonist. Shot by photographer Anthony Seklaoui, Jannik sports two logo-embellished knitwear pieces paired with a metallic silver edition of the classic Gucci duffel bag.
On the occasion of the second launch of the Gucci Gift campaign, Sinner answered some questions.
What gift would you give yourself today?
I think there are more important things than gifts. For me, health, family, and being able to spend time with the people I love are fundamental.
What did you do as a child on Christmas Eve?
The fondest memories associated with that day involve me skiing or intent on cooking with my parents and loved ones.
When you think of the family you chose for yourself, who do you think of?
Definitely the people I surround myself with every day, my team and those who work with me to become better in every way.
Describe Gucci, as a team and as a brand/family of choice.
With Gucci I share many values such as authenticity, loyalty and passion.
What do you always carry in your duffle bag (racket and uniform aside...)
I carry different things like clothes, drinks, gels, grips, sometimes some fruit, and everything I need when I am on the court.
What is the first thing you do when you are on vacation?
When I get a chance to take a break and be on vacation, I like to go back to my hometown and spend time with my family and close friends. They are the ones I miss when I travel.
What is your favorite Christmas dish?
Anything, as long as it is cooked by my father.
A New Year's resolution.
To stay true to myself and celebrate the people who are close to me and help me be who I am every day.
This second chapter of Gucci is about snow. a very familiar element to you (you were about to become, also, a great skier). What is your first memory on skis?
The feeling of being in touch with nature and the speed on skis.
The Gucci Gift campaign
The journey dedicated to the holidays and conceived by Gucci creative director Sabato De Sarno continues. The concept revolves around the idea that moments of joy shared with those we call family (whether by birth, fate or election) become meaningful memories that resonate long after the Holidays are over. So here we are transported from The Savoy in London to the snowy mountains where we see "moving" a group of friends stop to escape the hectic pace of the holidays to be with loved ones and immerse themselves in nature. This chapter beautifully reflects those moments when time seems to slow down, allowing bonds to take centre stage.
Not surprisingly, 'To the Mountains' also celebrates heartwarming family moments: in fact, Kirsty and Violet Hume, both featured in the Gucci fashion show, are immortalisd in a candid mother-daughter scene.
And speaking of gifts and sharing, Gucci Gift's gift selection expands to include seasonal interpretations of designer handbags such as the GG Marmont, the elegant Re-Web sneaker, and a wide range of stylish pre and post-ski wear.
Creative Director: Sabato De Sarno
Art Director: Riccardo Zanola
Director: Marcell Rev
Photographer: Anthony Seklaoui
Stylist: Francesca Burns
Make Up: Diane Kendal
Hair: Shay Ashual
Originally published by Vogue Italia.