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ranking ATP

Alexander Zverev, surprising numbers 1. Photo: gettyimages

Zverev and other surprising number 1s at the end of a season

We review the historical list of number 1 players at the end of a season to discover other players who defied expectations in their time, like Zverev in 2026.

Alexander Zverev, veteran number 1. Photo: Getty Images

Zverev will be the second oldest tennis player in history to reach number 1

The German is guaranteed to be number 1 in the ATP ranking in the coming weeks and will be one of only three tennis players in history to debut in that position at over 29 years old.

Alcaraz relies on himself to overcome Sinner. Photo: Getty Images

Alcaraz relies on himself to overcome Sinner

Spanish could end 2026 as number two in the world following the Italian's withdrawal from playing for the remainder of the season.

Zverev in Beijing aims for number 1. Photo: Getty

Zverev sends a warning to Sinner and is going for his number 1: "I am very motivated"

The German player saved the day in his debut in Beijing and claims to feel very motivated to take the number 1 spot in the Ranking from Sinner.

Alexander Zverev, options to become number 1. Photo: gettyimages

Zverev could be number 1 in the ATP rankings on October 19

Sinner's withdrawal in Beijing leaves Zverev in a privileged position to end the year as world number 1, although he could reach that position much sooner.