Alexander Zverev believes it is not realistic to expect Jannik Sinner to return stronger but also adds that the world No. 1 probably won't need much time to rediscover his best tennis after serving a doping ban.
Before he accepted a three-month ban, the Italian had won his third Grand Slam title at the Australian Open and was widely considered the best and most dominant player in the game. Also, he conquered the US Open in September and capped off his 2024 season by winning his first ATP Finals title.
So one thing that many have frequently asked over the last weeks is how will Sinner's level look when he returns. And now, Zverev has been asked the same question.
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Zverev: Sinner won't return stronger than before but he will quickly get to his best level
"Stronger than before, I think it's impossible. He started the season as he had closed it, as No. 1. Three months of stoppage, and not due to injury, mind you, are all in all not many. He was able to recharge his batteries and trained in detail, perfecting his shots and movements. It will take very little for him to return to the level of Melbourne," the German tennis star told Ubitennis.
Sinner's comeback will start in front of his home fans at the Rome Masters. The week before the French Open, the world No. 1 will also compete in Hamburg. Those two tournaments could tell a lot about what to expect from the Italian at Roland Garros and his chances of landing a third consecutive Grand Slam.
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While being out for an extended time is never ideal, the majority are actually convinced that Sinner can get off to a fast start in May. And knowing how dominant he had been before the ban, it is a safe bet that every player will enter their matches preparing to play the best version of the Italian.
