Jannik Sinner has emerged as the standout player in men’s tennis this season, showcasing remarkable skill and consistency. The 23-year-old Italian has not only built on his impressive performance from the latter half of 2023 but has also become a formidable competitor on all surfaces. His achievements in 2024 place him among the elite in the sport’s modern history, having secured eight titles, including two Grand Slam championships, three Masters 1000 titles, and the ATP Finals held in Turin. Additionally, Sinner played a pivotal role in Italy’s victory at the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga.
Sinner’s exceptional results have allowed him to create a significant lead in the ATP rankings, boasting a cushion of approximately 4,000 points over Alexander Zverev and nearly 5,000 points ahead of Carlos Alcaraz, despite the latter winning two Grand Slam titles this year.
The young star’s journey has not been without challenges. He managed to achieve these milestones while contending with a hip injury in the spring and navigating a doping investigation that lasted from April to August. Although he was acquitted, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the decision, leading to a new trial expected in February. If Sinner avoids disqualification, he stands a strong chance of maintaining his status as world number one for the foreseeable future.
A Clear Favorite
Currently, Sinner is regarded as the top favorite in every tournament on the men’s tour. While Carlos Alcaraz has demonstrated his own brilliance, particularly during the spring and summer months, he has struggled to match Sinner’s level of consistency. Feliciano Lopez, director of the Davis Cup Finals, praised Sinner’s extraordinary season, noting, “This year he has had a season beyond all logic, winning an unreal number of matches and losing only six. He deserves to be number one in the world. His intensity and ability to maintain high standards set him apart from others, who experience more fluctuations in form.”
When asked about Sinner’s potential for Grand Slam success, Lopez remarked, “It’s hard to say. He’ll definitely reach double figures, let’s say 14.”
Taking a Break
Following his contributions to Italy’s success in Malaga, Sinner is currently enjoying some downtime in Monte Carlo before fulfilling sponsorship commitments. He plans to resume training in early December and will travel to Dubai between December 7 and 8. Unlike previous years, he has opted to prepare for the upcoming season in the United Arab Emirates rather than Alicante.
Sinner is not expected to compete in any official tournaments until the 2025 Australian Open, where he will aim for his third Grand Slam title, following victories at the Australian Open and US Open. The outcome of his doping case is anticipated before the Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami, a verdict that could significantly impact the dynamics of the men’s tour.
Fans are eager to witness the ongoing rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz. ATP player Nishesh Basavereddy, who has practiced with both, highlighted the differences in their playing styles: “Sinner’s shots are flatter and travel straight through the court, while Alcaraz’s are heavier. On indoor hard courts, that makes a difference in bounce. Both players have unique strengths, but Alcaraz has won all three of their encounters in 2024, demonstrating he can challenge the current world number one.”
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