Sinner to return as world number one at Rome Masters after Zverev falters

MILAN: Jannik Sinner will make his highly anticipated return to the ATP Tour at next month’s Rome Masters as the world number one, following Alexander Zverev’s early exit in Monte Carlo on Tuesday.

The 23-year-old Italian had been serving a three-month doping suspension, agreed upon with the World Anti-Doping Agency in February, after failing two drug tests. Although initially cleared by an independent tribunal, the agency successfully challenged the decision, resulting in Sinner’s temporary ban.

In Sinner’s absence, world number two Zverev had the opportunity to claim the top spot in the rankings. However, the German’s form faltered, failing to progress past the quarter-finals in any of the six tournaments he played since the Australian Open. His hopes took another hit in Monte Carlo, where he suffered a 2-6, 6-3, 7-5 defeat to Matteo Berrettini, Sinner’s fellow countryman.

“I’ve not won many matches. So it’s been the worst period since my injury,” Zverev admitted, as he now turns his focus to the rest of the European clay swing for another chance at the top.

Sinner’s return in Rome will not only be a homecoming but also his debut tournament as the world’s top-ranked player.(Reuters)