VIENNA — Alexander Zverev is set to ascend to the pinnacle of men’s tennis, officially becoming the world No. 1 in the upcoming rankings release on Monday.
His impressive victory on Thursday in Vienna, which propelled him into the quarterfinals of the Erste Bank Open, confirmed the date of his crowning — a feat already anticipated by the season’s end.
“The sensation of standing atop the world is simply exhilarating,” Zverev expressed joyfully after overcoming Tallon Griekspoor with a score of 6-4, 7-5.
“This feeling transcends the joy of winning a tournament or lifting a trophy,” the reigning French Open and U.S. Open champion remarked, “knowing that ‘No. 1’ next to my name in the new rankings is an irreplaceable thrill.”
At 29 years old, Zverev will take over the top spot from Jannik Sinner on Monday, regardless of any future match outcomes.
Sinner had to call an early end to his season three weeks ago due to persistent inflammation in his right knee.
With this achievement, Zverev will become the 30th different player to secure the No. 1 ranking, and notably the oldest first-time No. 1 since John Newcombe, who accomplished it at age 30 in 1974, a year after the inception of the ATP rankings.
