Sinner refuses to be distracted by No. 1 ranking dream

Jannik Sinner refuses to be rattled by the growing possibility that he could well become world No. 1 for the first time if he keeps up his pace at the French Open.

The No. 2 could take over the top spot at age 22 if Novak Djokovic does not reach the final at Roland Garros.

And with the 37-year-old Serb’s current form and motivation a huge question mark, the time might be right for a strike by Sinner.

But the Italian who won the Australian Open four months ago has more pressing matters upon which to concentrate.

“I know the scenarios, yes, but it’s not about this at the moment,” he said on Monday after hammering Chris Eubanks 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 to open in the first round.

“For sure it’s a dream, yes, but in another way, I’m very relaxed. If it happens, it’s great and I’m very happy. If not, I’m very young still.”

Sinner added: “Hopefully I can get to that point, and I’m just looking forward to competing again in two days and we’ll see how I feel there on court. 

 Sinner is working with his team to focus on the immediate demands of competing in what is considered the toughest physical test of the four majors.

“At the moment, honestly I’m not thinking. I just try to get back where I want to be, as I said, trying to build confidence day by day.

“Every day for me, every shot I make or in practice sessions or in a match for me is important at this moment.

“I’m just looking forward to competing, I love it.

“We can practice a lot, but without competition, it’s not so much fun.”