Alexander Zverev, who is all set to reach the number one ranking in the ATP PIF Rankings, expressed his delight after reaching the top spot. Zverev will become the first German player to finish as year no. 1, and he will be the oldest player to accomplish the feat for the first time after Andre Agassi and Andy Murray. The lanky player has had a fantastic season on the tour, winning his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros after beating Italy’s Flavio Cobolli.
Zverev’s season got better to best when he secured the US Open title after beating home favorite Ben Shelton in the summit clash at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York.
The German celebrated his number one ranking with a win, beating Alexander Bublik in three sets in the ongoing Rolex Shanghai Masters.
“It’s very, very special. It’s different from winning big tournaments or Grand Slams,” Zverev said after his fourth-round win over Alexander Bublik at the Rolex Shanghai Masters on Tuesday. “It’s a different sort of feeling. As the World No. 1, you have a responsibility on your shoulders, but I’m looking forward to that.
“I’m close to being 30 years old. It’s a special feeling for me to achieve that at my age. It’s definitely been a special couple of hours, that’s for sure.”
The earliest Zverev can achieve the number one ranking is 2 November.
“I think the emotions come when you actually see the No. 1 next to your name,” Zverev said. “I think that will be something special. For now, I’m No. 2 in the world still, finnily enough. That I clinched year-end No. 1 is, of course, with Jannik being out, unfortunately. But I think, once it happens, it will be a special moment for me.”
Zverev will take on Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the quarterfinal of the Shanghai Masters on Thursday.
