Written by Richard Pagliaro | @Itenisi_Manje | Friday, June 7, 2024
A competitive rally lights up Paris today.
The latest chapter of Carlos Alcaraz vs. Jannik Sinner The rivalry saw the Spaniard lose eight of his first 10 matches before roaring back to win in five sets to reach the Roland Garros final.
More: Alcaraz Edges Sinner in Roland Garros Final
After the red dust settled on Alcaraz’s 2-6, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 victory that lasted four hours, nine minutes, Sinner was asked for his thoughts on the electrifying rivalry in the match.
Australian Open champion Sinner sees change as a constant in this changing rivalry.
Pointing out that both young couples are capable of making mid-match adjustments, Sinner said their next game will be tactically different from today’s five-set saga.
“I think we learn from each other very well. You can see a little tension sometimes from both players and both sides because we know each other little by little,” Sinner told the press in Paris. “Every time we play we expect a few things, and you know, putting plans together, you know, you make different decisions sometimes on the court.
“I think next time will be different next time. Let’s see where we play. And, that’s very important. Best of three or best of five is also different. You know, Grand Slam, there’s a different way. But I think it’s fun, and I’m looking forward to the next one.”
World No. 3 Alcaraz is 5-4 lifetime against Sinner and improved his five-set record to 10-1, while the Italian runner-up dropped to 6-8 in five sets.
The man who will make history as the first Italian to climb to number 1 on Monday said he has been suffering from cramps in his left hand and groin.
Sinner, who suffered a right groin injury in Madrid that forced him out of Rome, has seen his crucial 12-match win streak come to an end, but hopes to face Alcaraz again at the Olympic Games next month.
“I think it was a very good match. Certainly the sets he won he played better with important points, no?” Soni said. “I think that was the key. Obviously I’m disappointed with how it ended, but, you know, it’s part of my growth and the process.
“When I think about it, before the tournament reached this point, I’m obviously very happy. On the one hand, I’m disappointed with today’s game. Now I’m always looking forward to improving, trying to do my best. We can, and we’ll see what I can do in the future here in this tournament.
“On the bright side, I have improved a lot since last year. Yes, there is another chance to play here at the Olympics.”
Photo credit: Internazionali BNL d’Italia Facebook
