In a recent statement, Roger Federer expressed his preference for Jannik Sinner over Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev. Federer highlighted Sinner’s impressive dominance and consistency in the sport, particularly prior to his injury. This endorsement underscores Sinner’s potential as a leading player in the current tennis landscape.
Because both players were absent through injury, there has, however, been another side to the discussion, with critics pointing out that Zverev did not have to beat either Alcaraz or Sinner on his way to those Grand Slam titles. The German has won two majors this year, reaching the stage many had expected him to reach during his career, and that success has naturally strengthened the argument that he should now be considered the best player in the world. Zverev’s case is built around what he has finally achieved at Grand Slam level. Alcaraz has also backed that view, saying he believes Zverev currently deserves that distinction.
Roger Federer was asked to weigh up all three ahead of the 2026 Laver Cup in London, and his answer ultimately came down to the player he believes has produced the strongest overall season.
“I’d say maybe it’s even Sinner, just because of the sheer dominance that he had in Masters 1000s,” Federer said. I think when he does show up, he’s been the best,” Federer said. “Now, we also know that when Carlos is at his absolute best that maybe he is, I might argue that he is the best player out there, and I think he knows that as well,” Federer said.
With Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner both having spent time injured and Alexander Zverev finally adding Grand Slam titles to his résumé, the debate over who is currently the best player in men’s tennis has become far less straightforward. Zverev has the strongest major-tournament argument after winning two Grand Slam titles this year, while Alcaraz and Sinner remain the two players who have dominated much of the conversation at the top of the sport in recent seasons. Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the Laver Cup, Federer was asked who he considers the best player in men’s tennis right now, with Sinner’s knee injury and Alcaraz’s absence from recent action adding another layer to an already complicated debate. “He played great until his injury. “Now, what does the injury matter with his level of play? “That’s why also his ranking is right there.