Monte Carlo. The name itself conjures images of opulent casinos, gleaming yachts, and a lifestyle accessible to an exclusive few. It`s a principality synonymous with glamour, high stakes, and the quiet residence of many of the world`s most accomplished athletes, drawn by its temperate climate and, perhaps, its advantageous tax policies. Yet, even amidst this glittering facade, the human desire for the utterly mundane, the delightfully simple, often shines through. And sometimes, these moments of normalcy offer the most intriguing glimpses into the lives of global superstars.
The Gelato Chronicles: A Taste of Everyday Life
In the quiet, distinguished neighborhood of La Condamine, where apartment buildings host some of the sport`s biggest names, lies a humble institution: “Santo Gelato.” This isn`t just any ice cream parlor; it`s a window into the surprisingly routine life of world No. 1 tennis sensation, Jannik Sinner, and his girlfriend, Laila Hasanovic. Their residence, it turns out, is directly above this very shop. This proximity has granted Nicoletta Stampfl, co-owner of Santo Gelato alongside her husband Roberto, a unique vantage point.
Recently interviewed by the Italian weekly “Dipiù,” Nicoletta provided a delightful peek behind the gilded curtain of celebrity. She describes Laila Hasanovic as “beautiful, very simple in her demeanor and dress. In short, she`s a natural, an `acqua e sapone` girl.” Their communication? English, a pragmatic choice in a city of international residents. But the real scoop, quite literally, concerns Jannik`s palate.
“Sinner knows his gelato,” Nicoletta revealed. “When he comes here, he tastes before deciding. But in the end, he always chooses pistachio and amarena [sour cherry], his favorite flavors.”
One can almost picture the scene: the towering, focused athlete, usually seen dissecting opponents on court, now meticulously evaluating scoops of artisanal ice cream. Before departing for the demanding North American hard-court season, the couple purchased a hefty kilo of their beloved frozen treat. A small, relatable ritual for a man whose professional life is anything but. They even waited patiently outside the shop, a testament to the quiet, unhurried pace they seek in their off-court moments.
More Than Just Sinner: A Haven for Tennis Royalty
Santo Gelato`s allure isn`t exclusive to the reigning world No. 1. Its location in Monte Carlo naturally attracts a constellation of other tennis stars. Bolelli, Medvedev, and Dimitrov are among the regulars who appreciate the shop`s artisanal offerings. But perhaps the most storied customer, according to Nicoletta, was none other than the legendary Rafael Nadal.
During his time training in the principality, Nadal was a frequent visitor, captivating the owners with his irrepressible charm. “He wanted to learn how to make gelato,” Nicoletta recounted, “asking my husband for our secrets. An exquisite, truly likeable person.” Her admiration for Nadal is palpable, almost reverent. She observes that while Sinner is certainly on the right track in terms of geniality, “another Nadal will never again be in the circle of great tennis players” from a personality standpoint. It`s a gentle, humorous nod to the unique magnetism of the Spanish maestro.
The Monte Carlo Paradox: A Slice of Normalcy Under the Spotlight
The narrative emerging from Santo Gelato perfectly encapsulates the curious paradox of celebrity life in places like Monte Carlo. Here, stars seek refuge from the relentless glare of the global media, striving to carve out pockets of normalcy. Yet, the very act of living a “normal” life—buying groceries, strolling with a partner, or, indeed, choosing a favorite gelato flavor—becomes a subject of public fascination. There`s a subtle irony in the fact that the quest for privacy often inadvertently becomes the news itself.
For Sinner and Hasanovic, Santo Gelato represents more than just a sweet treat; it’s a sanctuary where they can momentarily shed their celebrity personas. It’s a place where a tennis legend can be “just a normal boy” going for ice cream with his girlfriend. This universal desire for simple, unadulterated pleasure transcends fame, wealth, and ranking. It`s a reminder that beneath the grand slams and endorsements, human beings just want a good scoop of pistachio or amarena, especially when it’s made with love and served with discretion.
