“Sinner has a disadvantage,” Roger Federer’s ex-coach gives his verdict on how Sinner-Alcaraz rivalry will fare on grass

Annacone believes Alcaraz possesses a weapon that makes him better on grass.

“Sinner has a disadvantage,” Roger Federer’s ex-coach gives his verdict on how Sinner-Alcaraz rivalry will fare on grass

In background: Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner; In circle: Paul Annacone (Via Imago)

Paul Annacone, American former pro and coach of multiple Grand Slam champions including Roger Federer, favors Carlos Alcaraz to win in Wimbledon if he faces his rival Jannik Sinner. 

Despite Sinner having the lead on Alcaraz on grass surface, Annacone believes the latter’s footwork will give him the deciding edge. Sinner, who is 6’3”, moves well on the court for someone his height, and Annacone acknowledged this. However, Alcaraz’s speed has always been a highlight and the American believes he is also more stable than his rival, which is a big advantage on a slippery surface.

Even though he moves a lot better, he’s a big guy. I think this is perhaps one of its disadvantages compared to a mover like Alcaraz who is lower to the ground. He is much more powerful, he will probably have a little more nuanced and subtly more balanced movements than Jannik's on a grass court.
Paul Annacone said as per welovetennis

Sinner and Alcaraz have only ever played once on grass. It was in the 2022 Wimbledon and Sinner emerged victorious in four sets. He then went on to reach the quarterfinal where he lost a heartbreaking five-setter against Novak Djokovic.

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Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz choose different tournaments to attend prior to the commencement of Wimbledon

After record-breaking runs in the French Open and throughout the first half of the year, the young rivals are making their return to the courts this week to kick off their grass seasons.

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner (via IMAGO)

Alcaraz has opted to play in the Queen’s Club Championships in London, which he will be heading into as the defending champion. He will take on Francisco Cerundolo in the first round tomorrow.

Sinner, on the other hand, is open to take part in the Halle Open, a tournament in which he was forced to retire mid-match last year. He faces a tough opponent in Tallon Griekspoor in the first round. Both Alcaraz and Sinner are the top seed in their respective tournaments and will be expected to have nothing less than a title run.

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