The Japan Times - Sinner says staying world number one 'not only in my hands'

Four-time Grand Slam winner Sinner wrestled back the world number one ranking by beating Canada's Felix Auger Aliassime 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) in the final of the Paris Masters after Alcaraz slipped to a shock early exit in the second round.

However, as the pair head into the ATP Finals -- running November 9-16 in Turin -- defending champion Sinner has a lot more points to defend than the Spaniard, who exited last year's season-ending showpiece at the group stage.

"It's not only in my hands, but I'm of course happy (to be back at number one)," the 24-year-old said.

"I knew from the beginning of the week that there is this chance... The goal was to go day by day, trying to maximise my potential, which I have done for this week, and I'm extremely happy.

"Now we recharge and hopefully be as ready as possible for Turin."

Sinner had told his pre-tournament press conference in the French capital that it would be "impossible" for him to finish 2025 atop the world rankings.

But now following his maiden Paris Masters title, Sinner now trails Alcaraz by just 1,050 points in the race to Turin, where one of them will be crowned year-end number one.

"Before every tournament or before every match, I try to put the best performance I can on the court, and then whatever comes, comes," Sinner added.

"In Turin, I'm going to do the same. I watch my side, and I just play the best possible tennis I can, and if it's not gonna be, it's not gonna be."

K.Yamaguchi--JT