Jannik Sinner To Become World No. 1 Following Djokovic's French Open Withdrawal

Jannik Sinner is set to become the new world number one following Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the French Open due to a knee injury. Djokovic, who faced Francisco Cerundolo in a gruelling fourth-round match on Monday, emerged victorious after five sets and over four and a half hours on the court.

During the match, Djokovic cruised through the first set but required medical attention in the second set due to a knee problem. Despite receiving medication and considering quitting, he continued to play. After the match, Djokovic announced he would decide on Tuesday whether to continue in the tournament.

On June 4, 2024, Djokovic officially withdrew from Roland-Garros due to his right knee injury. The 37-year-old was scheduled to face Casper Ruud in the quarter-final, a rematch of last year's final. However, Ruud will now advance with a walkover.

Djokovic needed to reach the final to retain his world number one status. His withdrawal means Jannik Sinner will surpass him in the ATP rankings after the tournament. Sinner will become the first Italian player to achieve world number one status since the ATP rankings were established in 1973. The change will be official on June 10.

Sinner secured his place in the semi-finals on Tuesday by defeating Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets. With Djokovic unable to defend his title or compete for his 25th major title, there will also be a new champion at Roland Garros this year.

Wishing Novak a speedy recovery pic.twitter.com/Ilb6HynTzw