Jannik Sinner revelled in the "amazing" achievement of reclaiming top spot in the ATP rankings following his victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the Monte-Carlo Masters final.

The Italian replaced the Spaniard at the summit following a 7-6 (7-4) 6-3 victory on Sunday, as he preserved his perfect record in ATP Masters events this year.

Sinner added to his triumphs at Indian Wells and Miami to become only the second player to win each of the opening three ATP Masters tournaments in a single season, after Novak Djokovic in 2015.

The four-time major winner also recorded his biggest career title on clay, as he built momentum ahead of next month's French Open.

"We came here trying to get as many matches as possible, getting good feedback before other big tournaments coming up," Sinner said during his on-court interview.

"Today was a high level from both of us. It was a bit windy, a bit breezy – different conditions from what the tournament has brought.

"The result is amazing. Getting back to number one means a lot to me. I am very happy to win a big title on this surface. I haven't done it before, and it means a lot to me."

Sinner was also pleased by the way he bounced back in the second set, having trailed 3-1 after giving up an early break before he reeled off five successive games.

"I tried to keep pushing. I felt a bit tired, so I tried to keep the right mentality, so having this trophy means a lot to me."

Alcaraz, meanwhile, narrowly missed out on becoming the first player to successfully defend the Monte-Carlo crown since Rafael Nadal's run of five straight titles between 2005 and 2009.

However, the Spaniard applauded his opponent's performance.

Addressing Sinner, Alcaraz said: "It is impressive what you are achieving right now. Just one man had won the 'Sunshine Double' and Monte-Carlo, and you are now the second.

"It is something incredible, and I just experienced how difficult it is. Congratulations on everything, and the work you are doing with your team."