Carlos Alcaraz has addressed the public perception of his rivalry with Jannik Sinner, claiming fans are drawn to the idea of tension between them despite their genuinely respectful relationship off the court.
"Trash-talking gets a lot of attention. People really like the idea that there is friction between us. That's what sells," Alcaraz told the Financial Times in a recent interview.
The Spanish star, who currently leads their head-to-head 8-5, emphasized that their competitive battles on court don't translate to animosity when they're not playing. At one point, Alcaraz dominated the rivalry with five consecutive victories, culminating in his five-set triumph in this year's French Open final. However, Sinner responded emphatically at Wimbledon, defeating Alcaraz in four sets to claim his first title at the All England Club.
"Jannik and I, who have had great battles on the court, see each other a lot off of it. We talk, we train together sometimes. And in the end you forge a good relationship, a beautiful relationship," explained the five-time Grand Slam champion.
Their growing rivalry has naturally drawn comparisons to the legendary battles between the 'Big 3' of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, who combined for an astonishing 66 Grand Slam titles. Interestingly, Alcaraz and Sinner have already won the last seven major tournaments between them, suggesting a possible changing of the guard in men's tennis.
Alcaraz, however, appears determined not to be weighed down by such comparisons. "If you don't stay strong in your ideals, in what you want, that pressure can eat you," he said, adding that they have "no obligation to do what they have done."
Both players have opted to skip the Canadian Open and will resume their preparations for the US Open at the Cincinnati Open next week. Worth noting that they're both former champions in New York – Alcaraz lifted the trophy in 2022, while Sinner enters as the defending champion.
Could we see these two facing off in a third consecutive Grand Slam final at Flushing Meadows? Tennis fans worldwide are certainly hoping so.
