Zverev now depends on himself to take the No. 1 spot from Sinner

The withdrawal of Jannik Sinner from the Masters 1000 in Shanghai has completely changed the landscape of the battle for the number one in the world. The Italian remains at the top of the ATP ranking, but his absence from the Asian tour leaves Alexander Zverev with a huge opportunity.

For the first time, the German depends on himself to become the new leader of world tennis, although the scenario is as clear as it is demanding. Zverev needs to win the next two tournaments on his calendar: Beijing and Shanghai. If he manages to lift both trophies, he will leave the Asian tour as world No. 1, regardless of what his pursuers do. The ATP had already pointed out this scenario before Sinner's withdrawal in Shanghai was confirmed.

Two titles worth a number one

For his part, Sinner has not competed since he won Wimbledon in July against Zverev himself. His right knee injury has forced him to miss the US Open, Beijing, and now Shanghai, where he was also supposed to defend the title he won in 2024.

The difference in points still keeps the Italian at the top. Sinner currently has 11,000 points, while Zverev occupies second place with 9,670. However, the absence of the Italian from the upcoming tournaments and the possibility of the German winning two consecutive titles could turn around a ranking that seemed practically untouchable just a few weeks ago. So the math is simple.

Zverev, who is currently competing in the round of 16 in Beijing against Jerry Shang, has two tournaments ahead and needs to win them both to establish himself at the top of the world. If he succeeds, Sinner will see his reign end from outside the courts, although right now the player from San Candido has more pressing issues.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Zverev ya depende de sí mismo para quitarle el Nº1 a Sinner