Jannik Sinner took a major stride toward reclaiming the world number one ranking after defeating Ben Shelton 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Paris Masters semi-finals.
The Italian, 24, now has a clear path to overtake Carlos Alcaraz, who suffered a shock early exit. Sinner, already an Australian Open and Wimbledon champion this year, can claim the top spot by winning the Masters 1,000 title.
“I felt like I was returning very well. Also, from the back of the court I played very solid and very aggressive,” Sinner told Sky Sports after his seventh straight win over Shelton.
He added that he’s not focused on the ranking, calling it “a consequence of how I’m playing.”
Sinner will next face the defending champion Alexander Zverev, who survived two match points to beat Daniil Medvedev 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-5).
In the other half of the draw, Alexander Bublik reached his first Masters semi-final by defeating Alex de Minaur. He will play Felix Auger-Aliassime.
