Bolzano, 7 November (LaPresse) – Jannik Sinner's latest interview and his statements about Italy are causing controversy in South Tyrol: "I am proud to be Italian, happy to have been born here and not in Austria or somewhere else. This country deserves much more, even more than what I am doing." These words did not go down well with the South Tyrolean Schützen, the association that commemorates the Habsburg militias. Provincial commander Christoph Schmid wrote an open letter to the champion asking him to be more cautious: ‘You know very well that statements like this, especially when made by such a famous person, have an impact that goes far beyond sport. Not only are they welcomed by nationalists in Italy, but they are also viewed with concern here. This is because they touch on fundamental issues: our language, our history, our identity,’ Schmid admonished Sinner. He continued: ‘If one day the majority of South Tyroleans were to forget their autonomy and identify exclusively as Italians, the work of those who once wanted to eliminate our uniqueness, from Tolomei (the geographer who Italianised the place names of South Tyrol, ed.) to Mussolini, would be accomplished.’ Hence, the appeal: ‘Our wish is simple: when you are asked about your national sentiment in the future, please consider the significance of your words. Speak, if you wish, of your belonging to Italy, but do so with respect for all those who consider themselves South Tyroleans, Ladins or members of other minorities.’
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