“We are most likely to play in very important matches,” Jannik Sinner thinks his rivalry against Carlos Alcaraz is exciting for tennis

Carlos Alcaraz to play Alexander Zverev in the final of the French Open.

“We are most likely to play in very important matches,” Jannik Sinner thinks his rivalry against Carlos Alcaraz is exciting for tennis

Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz (Images via X/IMAGO)

The battle between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz has become the defining rivalry of the modern era. The duo have met nine times and now have produced one of the best matches of all time. They met today in the semifinals of the French Open and Sinner believes the rivalry would define his career.

Both players look set to be meeting regularly despite having met only twice this year. Alcaraz beat the Italian when they first met at the Indian Wells Masters in March. Sinner was hoping for revenge when they were slated to play each other at the Philippe-Chatrier court in the semifinals of the French Open. Both players were just returning from injury leaving the door open without a favorite.

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Sinner played well but suffered cramps during the match. However, Alcaraz was just better than him in the end. The Spaniard produced a great comeback after being down 2:1 in the match. He produced a moment of magic after breaking Sinner’s serve with a fierce forehand winner. The 21-year-old won the match 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 in four hours and 10 minutes.

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This is the second time Sinner has failed to reach the final of a tournament due to losing to Alcaraz. The Italian’s 13-match Grand Slam winning streak this year was also broken by Alcaraz.

Well, you cannot compare us yet with the other players we had or still have. But for sure, I mean, if we watch the results, you know, we always are most likely to play in the semis or final or quarters. Very important matches. I think that's exciting for the game, especially when head-to-head is quite close.
Jannik Sinner said (via Roland Garros Press)

However, Sinner would be proud to become the first Italian to be World No.1 when an updated ranking is revealed on Monday.

Carlos Alcaraz hails Jannik Sinner for being his toughest opponent

Carlos Alcaraz hailed Jannik Sinner after beating him in the French Open semi-final. The Spaniard was returning from a forehand injury ahead of the French Open, an injury that makes it hard for him to hit the ball well enough. But, he seems free of the pain after beating Sinner in five sets.

Alcaraz also hoped for many more matches like the French Open semifinal when he faces Sinner the next time.

The toughest matches that I have played in my short career have been against Jannik. He is a great player. The team he has as well and the great work he puts in every day and I hope to play him many, many more matches like this against him.
Carlos Alcaraz said via ATP
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner (via IMAGO)

Alcaraz will face Italian Open Champion Alexander Zverev in Sunday’s championship match. He has never lost in a Grand Slam final in his career.

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