Jannik Sinner ready to defend World No. 1: “All the other players want to chase you at this game and I like it.”
ATP
Jannik
Sinner reflected on the challenges of being world No. 1 and shared his hopes
for a long career in tennis. The 2-time Grand Slam champion has had a dazzling
season, with 65 wins and only 6 losses—three of them to No. 2, Carlos
Alcaraz—and has claimed 7 titles.
This
stellar year has propelled the Italian to the top of the rankings for the first
time in his career, creating a significant gap of over 4,000 points from his
closest rival, Alcaraz. Only the Paris Masters, ATP Finals, and Davis Cup—where
Italy will defend its 2023 title under Sinner’s leadership—remain on the Tour
calendar.
Sinner eyes the long game, planning to stay on top
At just 22
years old, Sinner reached the top spot and has shown no weaknesses, dominating
most of his opponents and boasting a 12-5 record against top-10 players this
season (12-2 excluding Alcaraz). He has become the player to beat in every
tournament, and Sinner acknowledges the pressure of being the favorite.
“(Pete)
Sampras used to say that when you become world number one, it’s like having a
target on your back, and everyone wants to hit you,” the 2024 US Open champion
said. “Losing as world No. 1 feels different because when you lose a match, it
really hits. When you’re ranked 10 and lose to No. 5, it’s different because
he’s stronger than you, but when you’re No. 1, everyone is after you. But
that’s what makes the game so great.”
Sinner also
noted that despite being world No. 1, he hasn’t changed as a person and remains
fully committed to working hard every day to keep improving: “I believe I’ve
stayed the same. Being No. 1 hasn’t changed me as a person or in how I treat
others. What changes is you have less free time, but I devote all the time I
can to work—it’s up to me.
Jannik Sinner at 2024 Beijing Open.
"If I want to go home tomorrow, I can, but I don’t
want to because my career began when I left home at 13 and a half. Now, at 23,
I’ve achieved my dream of becoming world No. 1, and it’s the time to keep
working because everyone is chasing you at this game, and I like it.”
Sinner
added that he aims for a long career and takes measures to maintain his
physical health, always with a long-term view: “I’m going to play another 15
years until I’m 35 or 40. Let’s hope my body holds up. They say 15 years is a
long time, but it’s not—time flies. We’re making all the choices to keep
playing as long as possible while balancing improvement, the desire to win, and
having the right people around who can help.”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Either Lena has a chronic internal ailment (i.e., colitis, enteritis, Crohn's, or some type of lower abdomen issue) -- or she is once again dealing with 'Vukovitis'. Mental stress can indeed cause lower body pains. No matter... whatever is truly going on sucks. "Virus" excuse is getting a bit old -- and often -- at this point.
mandoist09-11-2026 - Ironically, Martina became a U.S. Citizen about the same time as the Orange Convicted Felon & Abuser was just beginning on his road to losing all Daddy's Millions!!mandoist09-11-2026
- "Another fresh start is in the cards." Thanks for the Humor!! I'm guessing this is the minimum one can do to keep all your sponsors hanging-on in perpetuity?mandoist09-11-2026
- Vukov is doing this to Lena... AGAIN!!!!! WTA's autonomous collective should be dismantled for allowing Vukov to re-emerge from his hand-slapping suspension. Just ask WTA employees how that's been going lately as they witness his continued verbal abuses. Women's Pro Tennis should start over.mandoist08-11-2026
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??mandoist08-11-2026
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
