The remarkable fifth-set tiebreaker triumph of Carlos Alcaraz over Jannik Sinner in the electrifying and record-shattering French Open men’s final left us with numerous pivotal insights.
Here’s the first takeaway: Those fretting about the future of men’s tennis in the post-Big Three era can breathe easy. Alcaraz and Sinner’s captivating battle of 5.5 hours on Sunday showcased that the sport is remarkably well-positioned — and their budding rivalry is on track to become legendary.
Take it from none other than Roger Federer. The retired legend, who boasts 20 Grand Slam titles and once competed fiercely with Rafael Nadal (22 majors) and Novak Djokovic (24), began a social media post with, “Three winners in Paris today,” highlighting Alcaraz, Sinner, and “the breathtaking beauty of tennis. What a match!”
No. 1 Sinner and No. 2 Alcaraz Set for Wimbledon Rematch
This encounter marked the 12th showdown between Alcaraz and Sinner, but the first on a Grand Slam stage.
“Let’s hope it’s not our last meeting,” Alcaraz remarked. “Every time we clash, we push each other to new heights.”
It would truly be surprising if we don’t witness many more memorable contests — potentially as soon as Wimbledon kicks off on June 30, where No. 2 ranked Alcaraz will aim to defend his title.
Alcaraz executed an unforgettable comeback against No. 1 Sinner, rallying from two sets down and three championship points down to clinch victory with scores of 4-6, 6-7 (4), 6-4, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (10-2) — a feat never before achieved at Roland-Garros. His coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, encapsulated Alcaraz’s determination: “His strength lies in steadfast belief, right until the last ball is struck.”
Alcaraz: A Five-Time Grand Slam Champion at 22
At just 22 years of age, Alcaraz has already captured five Grand Slam titles — matching the records of legends like Nadal, Bjorn Borg, and Pete Sampras at the same age. He stands out as the youngest to reach this milestone. His flawless 5-0 record in major finals rivals only Federer’s stunning 7-0 start.
Sinner is no slouch either. As of Tuesday, he has held the No. 1 ranking for a full year. His remarkable run includes reaching the finals of eight consecutive tournaments — a feat last achieved by Djokovic a decade ago, along with three major titles and an impressive 47 wins out of his last 50 matches.
Interestingly, all three of Sinner’s losses in that span have come against — you guessed it — Alcaraz, reminiscent of Federer’s dominance over everyone but Nadal.
Notably, Sinner had secured 31 consecutive Slam sets until facing Alcaraz, adding to the intrigue of their matchup.
For anyone witnessing the action live at Court Philippe-Chatrier or watching from home, it was clear: Alcaraz vs. Sinner is an unmissable spectacle.
“The level of play,” Alcaraz noted, “was absolutely insane.”
Alcaraz and Sinner: The Reigning Champions of the Last Six Grand Slams
“I’m thrilled to be part of this narrative,” stated the 23-year-old Italian. “I would be even happier if I had the coveted trophy.”
In every epic rivalry throughout tennis history — think Evert vs. Navratilova, Borg vs. McEnroe, or Federer vs. Nadal — the contest between Alcaraz and Sinner offers a blend of excellence and contrasting styles.
Alcaraz embraces emotion, often pumping his fists, signaling for more enthusiasm, and yelling “Vamos!” In contrast, Sinner maintains a composed demeanor. Sinner’s lengthy reach allows him to chase down nearly every ball, while Alcaraz’s quickness sets him apart. Sinner’s ball-striking is fluid and precise, whereas Alcaraz’s drop shots are the stuff of legends — both deliver gut-wrenching groundstrokes that leave opponents frustrated and spectators awe-struck.
Each player has areas for growth: Sinner has yet to conquer a match lasting four hours, while Alcaraz occasionally loses focus.
Both are eager to elevate their game. After a three-month doping ban, Sinner returned with a new angled return stance, while Alcaraz refined his serve and backhand techniques.
What heights might they yet achieve? They have split the last six Grand Slam titles and claimed eight of the last eleven.
Federer’s Prediction of a New Generation of Champions
During a December 2019 interview with The Associated Press, Federer foresaw a new generation of players winning major titles in succession, similar to the dominance he, Nadal, and Djokovic enjoyed — though he didn’t expect it to be a “Big Two.”
“It’s bound to happen, inevitably,” Federer commented. “And it might not be as hard, because the players have seen what we achieved. They’ve witnessed not just one player accomplishing this every 30 years, but three players in a relatively short span. They’re going to believe more in their potential.”
