Kim Clijsters is blunt about Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev

Former world No. 1 Kim Clijsters spoke to ESPN about Alexander Zverev’s impending rise to the top of the ATP rankings, overtaking Jannik Sinner. The Italian tennis player has been sidelined since last July’s Wimbledon final, but according to the former Belgian athlete, the German deserves the world No. 1 ranking for what he has accomplished this season.

“I certainly didn’t expect it, but this shows that consistency is important in the world of tennis. It’s not just about the level of play, but also physical condition. The impact of the intensity of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s play on their bodies—that’s part of the sport.”

“Sascha has been the most consistent player, both on the court and physically, and he fully deserves this result. Sinner and Alcaraz are superior when they’re at 100% of their ability, but Zverev certainly isn’t responsible for their injuries. He persevered and did what he had to do.”

The South Tyrolean has officially ended his 2026 season, withdrawing from the year’s final tournaments. The issue with his right knee—an inflammation that does not require surgery but does necessitate a course of specific treatments—has led the medical staff and the champion himself to err on the side of caution, with the goal of starting the 2027 season in the best possible condition. Sinner’s last match was on July 12, the Wimbledon final, which he won against Zverev.

Angelo Binaghi, president of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, publicly expressed his support for Sinner following the announcement of his hiatus: “Protecting Jannik’s physical well-being comes before any result or competitive commitment. We await him with open arms, with the same respect and affection as always, and with the certainty that he will return to the court when he is in the best condition to do so.”