Zverev Misses Big Opportunity to Close ATP Rankings Gap After Shock Rio Open Exit
Alexander Zverev squandered a prime chance to close the gap on Jannik Sinner at the top of the ATP rankings after suffering a stunning defeat at the Rio Open.
The world No. 2 fell 6-4, 3-6, 4-6 in the quarter-finals to world No. 86 Francisco Comesana, despite leading 4-1 in the third set. The 24-year-old Argentine mounted an incredible comeback, winning five consecutive games to complete the upset.
Reflecting on his loss, Zverev acknowledged his improved form but lamented the missed opportunity:
“Better level than Buenos Aires, but unfortunate to finish the tournament like this. I still enjoyed my time in Rio and hope to come back. It’s one of the most beautiful 500s that I’ve ever played. Shame because I was in a winning position.”
Zverev was the only top-25 player in the draw following the withdrawals of Holger Rune and Lorenzo Musetti, making his early exit even more disappointing. The semi-finals now feature world No. 31 Sebastian Baez, the defending champion and the only remaining top-50 player.
Zverev’s No. 1 Ambitions & The Race to Overtake Sinner
Despite his setback in Rio, Zverev remains focused on his ultimate goal—becoming world No. 1.
“I’m not number one in the world yet, but I want to be,” the 27-year-old stated earlier in the tournament. “My goal is to fight for the big titles and the top spot in the rankings with Alcaraz and Sinner. There are things they do better than me. I have to improve.”
With Sinner banned from ATP competition until May 4 due to a failed doping test, both Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz have a golden opportunity to gain ground. However, both players missed chances this week, with Alcaraz also losing in the Qatar Open quarter-finals.
ATP Rankings Outlook: Can Zverev Catch Sinner?
- Sinner (Current Points: 11,330) will drop to 9,730 when he returns in May.
- Zverev (8,135 points) failed to add to his tally in Rio and remains 3,195 points behind Sinner. A title would have earned him an extra 400 points.
- Alcaraz (7,510 points) also missed a chance to gain ground.
Between now and the Italian Open in May, Zverev is defending 850 points, while Alcaraz must defend 1,400 points. To overtake Sinner before Rome, Zverev needs 2,446 points, while Alcaraz requires 3,721 points.
Next Stop: Acapulco
Zverev will have a chance to bounce back next week at the Mexican Open (ATP 500) in Acapulco, where he’ll look to reclaim momentum in the rankings race.
