Former ATP player Paolo Bertolucci has openly criticized Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz for failing to capitalize on Jannik Sinner’s recent three-month suspension from professional tennis. Sinner, who tested positive for the banned substance clostebol, accepted a suspension that began on February 9 and concluded on May 4, 2025, allowing him to return to competition at the Rome Masters 1000 .
During Sinner’s absence, both Zverev and Alcaraz had the opportunity to close the gap in the ATP rankings. However, neither player managed to produce consistent results to challenge Sinner’s top position. Zverev struggled with form, particularly between February and March, and despite a title win in Munich and a strong showing in Madrid, it was insufficient to overtake Sinner. Alcaraz, on the other hand, dealt with his own inconsistencies and an adductor injury that forced him to miss the Mutua Madrid Open.
In an interview with ‘Il Corriere della Sera,’ Bertolucci expressed his disappointment: “Everyone thought that the German and the Spaniard would get very close to Sinner or overtake him, but they both made several disasters. Jannik’s first position was never really at risk.”
As Sinner returns to the court, he retains his World No. 1 ranking and looks to reestablish his dominance on the tour. His comeback at the Rome Masters will be closely watched as he prepares for the upcoming French Open.