Jannik Sinner has admitted to doubting himself prior to returning to the court at the Italian Open.

The world No. 1 returned from his three-month suspension in style by beating Mariano Navone 6-3 6-4, in what will be a significant relief for the 23-year-old.

Speaking after his win, Sinner was asked whether he had questioned whether he would be able to hit the ground running after his ban, to which he replied: “Of course. It's normal to have doubts. Would be strange to not have any doubts. Would sound very arrogant, no?

“I have doubts. I had doubts before going on court today. I have doubts now what's going to happen in the next match.”