'As many matches as possible with less tournaments as possible' - Jannik Sinner outlines scheme to sustain number one ranking

World number one Jannik Sinner has taken the tennis world by storm over the past couple of years. Having won three Grand Slams and achieved a commanding number one status, he aims to remain there for as long as possible.

The 22-year-old is currently competing in Cincinnati, seeking his fifth Masters 1000 title, and first this year. The only two tournaments Sinner has come out triumphant in 2025 were the Australian Open and Wimbledon. His first Wimbledon title was won against his great rival Carlos Alcaraz, with the pair destined to face off in America in a repeat of the previous two Grand Slam finals. Sinner's last 1000 final was also against the Spaniard in Rome on his return from a suspension, but was outclassed by Alcaraz in straight sets.

This is his first tournament after Wimbledon, tactically skipping the Canadian Open along with many of his on-court rivals for a well-earned break. Now back on the court, he has his eye on the upcoming US Open. Not only wanting to defend the title he first won last year, but to further cement his place as the number one ranked player.

Sinner hints at long career

The Italian first achieved his number one status back in June 2024. He had started the year as the world number four, but shot up the rankings after he obtained his first Grand Slam title. He went on to win eight titles that year, including a strong finish to the campaign where he acquired the US Open and the ATP finals, defeating American number one Taylor Fritz in both.

This strong end to the year created an unattainable lead at the top of the rankings, as Sinner strives to stay there for as long as possible. He aims to pursue this longevity by playing as many matches as possible in as few tournaments, citing the physical challenges of the tennis schedule. By doing this, he will have the best chance of remaining at the top step.

Speaking to Ziggo Sport, Sinner said: "It's for sure a different feeling, but I'm happy to be there. Thats the best position you can possibly be but at the same time my main goal is to have as many matches as possible throughout the season with less tournaments as possible, because if I feel like if I want to play a longer career you have to stop at times. You have to work physically a lot to keep the body going and I think this is what we are aiming for."