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With Carlos Alcaraz out in Paris, Jannik Sinner eyes Masters title and rare statistical milestone

Originally posted on HITC | By Lee Clarke | Last updated Oct 30, 2025 10:43 AM ET

Jannik Sinner has a clear path to another Masters 1000 title after Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out early in Paris.

Alcaraz had nothing but praise for Cameron Norrie after his defeat, and with the defending champion now out, Sinner will see this as a big opportunity.

Sinner’s tournament started with a solid win over Zizou Bergs. Having already lost two finals in Paris, he’ll be determined to get over the line this time.

The Italian said Norrie played “incredible” tennis and deserved the win. Now Sinner’s attention will turn back to his pursuit of the number one ranking.

Even though he’s still early in his career, Sinner is already one of the dominant players on tour. A third Masters 1000 title would only strengthen that reputation.

Sinner on the verge of unique ATP Tour Milestone

Sinner’s game keeps evolving, and now he’s closing in on a unique bit of ATP Tour history.

So far in 2025, he leads the tour in both service games won and return games won – something no player has ever finished the year doing. Sinner is now very close to being the first to pull off that rare double.

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On the return side, it’s a different mix of names. Sinner is again at the top, showing how much his return game has grown over recent seasons.

What Jannik Sinner needs to do to reclaim the top spot in the world rankings

With Alcaraz out of the Paris Masters, Sinner has a clear path to take back the number one ranking, at least for a short while.

If he wins in Paris, he’ll move back into first place. But with ATP Finals points dropping off soon after, that lead may be brief.

Sinner’s window at the top might be short-lived, but he’s still firmly in the race as we head towards the end of the season.

A Paris title would mean Alcaraz needs 450 points at the ATP Finals – likely requiring him to reach the final and win at least one group stage match – to retake top spot before year’s end.

No matter how it ends up playing out, both players have had fantastic years. This rivalry is shaping up to be a long-term story in tennis.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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