Jannik Sinner is relishing more “great battles” with Carlos Alcaraz in 2026 after overcoming the world number one in two tight sets to defend his ATP Finals crown in Turin.
For the second consecutive year, the Italian captured the title without dropping a set throughout the tournament, winning 7-6 (7-4) 7-5 in the final, and is now unbeaten in 31 consecutive matches on indoor hard courts.
It was Sinner’s second victory in six finals against Spaniard Alcaraz this season and closed the gap in their head-to-head record to 10-6.
The duo have dominated the 2025 men’s tour calendar, winning a combined 14 titles, including all four Grand Slams, and the ‘Sincaraz’ rivalry went stratospheric in June when Alcaraz fought back from two sets down and saved three championship points to win a Roland Garros epic.
The Spaniard also triumphed in Rome, Cincinnati and at the US Open, but Sinner, who came out on top at Wimbledon, had the final word in front of home support.
“You are definitely a player I look up to, a lot of motivation. I hope to see you again next year with great battles ahead of us,” said Sinner, who pockets just over $5million (£3.85m) as champion, as he addressed Alcaraz.
“It was a close match-up. [Alcaraz had] set point in the first set and I’m happy with how I handed the situation. It means the world to me. Playing against Carlos, you have to play your best.”
Alcaraz, who has won seven of their past nine meetings, is similarly keen to renew their rivalry next year, issuing a friendly warning.
“It is a great year for Jannik and now time to rest. I hope you are going to be ready for next year because I will be ready. Hopefully I will play more finals against you,” Alcaraz said at the post-match presentation
Source: BBC
