Jannik Sinner explains why he thinks he ‘appeals’ to a lot of tennis fans 

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World number one Jannik Sinner has suggested that he remains a popular player on the ATP Tour.

Certainly, his bruising ball-striking, intense rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz, and Grand Slam triumphs, are pleasing on the eye.

This year, Jannik Sinner became Italy’s first number one ranked player since the computerised rankings began in 1973.

Starting the year off with a comeback victory in the Australian Open final, Sinner notched up his second Grand Slam of both the year and his career in New York.

Since, titles at the Shanghai Masters and exhibition event, the Six Kings Slam, have come thick and fast.

Remarkably, Sinner has lost just one match since the beginning of August – a third set tie-break was all that separated him and Alcaraz in the Beijing final.

Jannik Sinner insists he is popular with tennis fans

The world number one has maintained remarkable composure over the last few months, while his ongoing doping saga continues to remain up in the air.

Having twice tested clostebol in March, Sinner was initially cleared of any wrongdoing in August. However since, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) have appealed the verdict and the case has been re-opened.

With such success this season, Sinner, still just 23, has said that all the winnings and glory have not changed him as a person – something he believes fans have noticed.

He told La Stampa: “From my point of view, I appeal to many people because I am a regular guy. Success has not changed me; I am still the same, natural, and I do not like being the center of attention.

“Those who know me are well aware of this, knowing that I keep my feet on the ground. I always try not to let success get to my head or feel down when I lose.”

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Jannik Sinner faces a tough draw at the Paris Masters

Despite being the top seed in Paris, it has not helped Sinner much at all, with the Italian facing one of the toughest draws.

With a first-round bye, he will face either Ben Shelton or Frenchman Corentin Moutet.

Afterwards, Sinner has the prospect of facing all top 10 players (bar his second round clash) if he is ti reach the final.

Alexander Zverev could be his potential opponent in the semifinals, while a final against Alcaraz may excitingly await.