Alcaraz Looks Forward: ‘I Know Sinner Will Adapt’
As he gears up for his debut in Tokyo, the World No. 1 shares insights on his rivalry with Sinner.
September 24, 2025
Kinoshita Group Japan Open
Carlos Alcaraz takes center stage at the ATP 500 in Tokyo this week.
By Jerome Coombe
Carlos Alcaraz is set to make his much-anticipated Tokyo debut as Jannik Sinner competes in Beijing, yet he can’t shake off thoughts of their escalating rivalry.
Victorious in the US Open final, Alcaraz has increased his edge in the Lexus ATP Head2Head series to 10-5, winning seven of their last eight encounters. Sinner’s recent loss cost him the No. 1 ranking, prompting him to indicate a desire for change. However, Alcaraz feels he remains a step ahead.
“I know he’s going to adapt,” Alcaraz remarked during a pre-tournament conference in Tokyo. “I expect him to adjust tactics from our last match, much as I did after losing to him previously. Next time we meet, I’ll be prepared for whatever new approach he takes.”
“I’m excited about our rivalry, as it’s developing positively for both of us and for tennis in general. It’s fascinating to see how often we might face each other under different circumstances in the future,” he added.
This year has been remarkable for Alcaraz. With 62 wins and seven titles, he leads the Tour according to the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index, closing in on surpassing his career-best of 65 wins from last year.
As the frontrunner in the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin, he is on track to secure his second consecutive ATP Year-End No. 1 finish. Nevertheless, Alcaraz is modest about discussions of achieving the ‘greatest of all time’ status.
“That thought is not on my radar right now,” he stated regarding ambitions of being the greatest player ever. “My primary goal in tennis is to be recognized alongside the legends of the sport. But for now, I’m focused on my current journey. Achieving impressive things at just 22 is already a lot.”
“The future is unpredictable, and I’m concentrating on daily improvement, honing my skills, and championing the right mindset. That’s my priority,” he concluded.
Alcaraz’s quest continues this week at the Kinoshita Group Japan Open Tennis Championships, where he aims to follow in the footsteps of 12 previous ATP No. 1 Club champions who have triumphed in Tokyo.
Just a year ago, Alcaraz triumphed over Sinner in an electrifying final in Beijing. However, in 2025, he has chosen to make his mark at the ATP 500 in Tokyo. He is set to challenge Sebastian Baez in the first round, with a potential matchup against Chengdu champion Alejandro Tabilo in the second round.
“I know the reputation of this tournament and the caliber of past champions,” Alcaraz expressed. “My goal here is to play exceptional tennis, showcase my abilities, and aim for the trophy. It’s essential for me to leave my mark and have my name alongside the legends who have won this title.”
Tokyo’s winners list features icons of the game, including the Big Three—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic—alongside Andy Murray, Pete Sampras, Stefan Edberg, and Ivan Lendl, among many others.
