Alexander Zverev sets his sights on a double victory in Asia to dethrone Jannik Sinner

You have to seize opportunities when they arise, and from that perspective, Alexander Zverev is doing great. The German is having an outstanding season. He’s won his first two Grand Slam tournaments (Roland Garros and the US Open), and now, if everything goes according to plan, he’ll become the world No. 1.

That’s right—the German has his sights set on overtaking Jannik Sinner, the current world No. 1. The math is simple: if Alexander Zverev were to win both the Beijing and Shanghai tournaments and, at the same time, Jannik Sinner were to withdraw from Shanghai as well, the overtaking would be certain.

Given the extreme caution with which Jannik Sinner’s staff has been proceeding in recent weeks, trying to figure out the best course of action for the Italian—who continues to grapple with his well-known knee problem— it’s clear that Alexander Zverev has a truly excellent chance of taking Jannik Sinner’s place at the top.

Furthermore, it’s worth remembering that, last year, Jannik Sinner had an incredible end to the season and, as a result, has many points to defend as 2026 draws to a close. In short, the German could have other opportunities to become No. 1, and he knows it perfectly well. If Jannik Sinner continues to have to throw in the towel for upcoming tournaments as well, it’s clear that everything will be much, much easier for Alexander Zverev.