Alexander Zverev expressed frustration over the criticism surrounding his rise to World No. 1, insisting that he deserves his place at the top of the ATP rankings.

On Monday, Zverev officially reached the top of the PIF ATP Rankings for the first time in his career. He is the first German man in singles history to finish a year as ATP Year-End No. 1, and only the second German man after Boris Becker to reach No. 1 in the PIF ATP rankings. However, his rise has sparked debate among tennis fans and analysts. Critics have argued that the extended absences of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner played a major role in his ascent.

Alcaraz missed nearly five months because of a right wrist injury, while Sinner’s season ended after Wimbledon due to a right knee injury. Some critics also questioned Zverev’s Grand Slam achievements, pointing out that he won the French Open and U.S. Open without facing Sinner, Alcaraz, or Novak Djokovic.

Following his second-round defeat to Lorenzo Musetti at the Paris Masters, Zverev addressed the criticism during his post-match press conference on Wednesday. He admitted that the repeated questions about his ranking had frustrated him, saying:

“I was a bit annoyed the last couple of days because achieving the world No. 1 status is something I think every player dreams of. But then, I feel like I’m the only world No. 1 in tennis history that has to explain why it’s ok for me to be world No. 1, which I find quite difficult. Because I deserve to be where I am. I don’t think anyone has to explain themselves as much as I had to do in the last couple of days.”

Alexander Zverev suffered a straight-sets defeat by Musetti in his first match since reaching the top of the rankings. The loss made for a disappointing start to his time as World No. 1.

Alexander Zverev made his feelings known about receiving the World No. 1 rank

Alexander Zverev discussed the significance of reaching the top of the rankings in an essay titled “My Point,” published on the ATP Tour’s website. Reflecting on his achievements during the season, the German described becoming World No. 1 as a special feeling that was difficult to put into words.

“No words can truly describe this year. Two Grand Slam titles, countless memories and today, I woke up as the No. 1 player in the ATP Rankings. It is very special. To be able to feel what it is like being on top of the world is amazing,” Zverev said.

He added:

“I have been able to win many important tournaments in my career. But having the No. 1 next to my name is such a special feeling that is impossible to describe.”

Alexander Zverev is expected to compete next at the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin, Italy, which begins on Nov. 15, 2026.