Jannik Sinner says it is difficult to compare himself to the likes of Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz after being when asked if he feels he is the best in the world at the moment.
With ATP #1 Djokovic not playing, Sinner is the top seed at the Madrid Masters 1000 and has a chance to close in on the world No. 1 spot at the event. The 2024 Australian Open champion pulled out of the event last year but is among favorites this year to seal the title after an outstanding start to the season.
Semifinal losses at the Indian Wells and Monte Carlo have been his only defeats of 2024 as he clinched three titles including a major maiden at the Australian Open. Sinner is leading the ATP Race to Turin with World No. 1 Djokovic down at 9th and World No. 3 Alcaraz at 7th place after a shaky start to the season.
The Italian is undoubtedly in the form of his career and has surpassed Alcaraz in the rankings already as he looks to dethrone Djokovic now.
When quizzed in a presser whether he felt like he is the best player in the world, Sinner didn’t discount the achievements of his two main rivals.
“I think it’s a difficult question to answer,” he said.
“We always look at the current moment, and sometimes that’s good, and other times it’s not. I don’t think I can compare myself to Djokovic and everything he’s done.
“I have a lot of respect for him, just like I have a lot of respect for Carlos, who has won more than me. I have a lot of respect for both of them. I just try to play my tennis, be able to give my best and see what I can achieve.”
Madrid will be the first occasion of the World No. 2’s career where he will come as the top seed as he will likely face countryman Lorenzo Sonego as his first challenge in the Spanish capital. And while he is enjoying his position being entering Madrid as a top seed, Sinner asserts his approach has remain unchanged.
The 22-year-old added: “It is clear that it is a great pleasure, although, on the other hand, nothing is going to change. I am simply here, trying to understand my clay court tennis a little better.
“Here in Madrid the conditions are somewhat different compared to other tournaments because we play in height, the ball flies and is quite fast. Before I had a hard time finding my level here, so it will be interesting to see how I can play this year.
“That is the most important thing. If I can find my tennis, I think my game can adapt. very good under these conditions, but I feel like I still have to find it. I still have three days of training left before my first game, three days that I hope will help me.
“Next week we will see how I can answer this question.”