Jannik Sinner’s Bizarre Pre-Match Ritual in China Goes Viral

Jannik Sinner's pre-match ritual spotted at the China Open has gone viral.

Last week, Sinner won the China Open in Beijing after beating American teenager Learner Tien 6-2, 6-2 inside the Diamond Court.

Before dispatching Tien, the Italian beat the likes of Alex de Minaur, Fabian Marozsan, Terence Atmane and Marin Cilic.

The win in Beijing was Sinner's third ATP title of the season, having also won two Grand Slams by lifting the Australian Open and Wimbledon.

However, Sinner failed to continue the momentum in Shanghai as he was forced to retire against Tallon Griekspoor after suffering from cramp.

Griekspoor said after the match: "This is definitely not the way you want to win.

"Brutal conditions here in Shanghai all week already. I thought we were still a little bit lucky to play in the evening without sun, but two hours, 36 minutes on the clock, middle of the third set. Sorry for him, I wish him a speedy recovery."

During the Beijing Open, Sinner went viral after a bizarre ritual of his was captured on camera.

The video posted on social media compiled clips from different tournaments, showing Sinner throwing away the very first sip when opening a new bottle of water.

While no official explanation was given, fans were quick to react to the video.

One fan said: "First sip is for the tennis gods."

Another tweeted: "Just prevent spilling it on his body if too full."

A third fan added: "Maybe more microplastics floating at the top?"

Someone else wrote: "And then he'll tell you he's not superstitious."

A fifth commented: "Now I am highly convinced that this guy is really superstitious."

Another fan said: "He does so because in China water bottles are filled to the brim."

Looking ahead, Dutchman Griekspoor will take on Monegasque player Valentin Vacherot in the next round of the Shanghai Masters.