Carlos Alcaraz hails Jannik Sinner as “the best ball striker” as he cherishes their rivalry

Carlos Alcaraz praised World No. 1 Jannik Sinner for his consistency throughout the year and spoke positively about their rivalry.

Carlos Alcaraz hails Jannik Sinner as “the best ball striker” as he cherishes their rivalry

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz after their Six Kings Slam final (Image via Reuters)

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are the latest superstars of men’s tennis. The two players have established themselves at the top so early in their careers. Ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in the world, Sinner and Alcaraz are also seeing their rivalry grow.

While there is this fierce competition on the court between them, both admire each other too. After Sinner showered praise on his rival and hailed Alcaraz for his athleticism, the Spaniard also spoke highly of his nemesis.

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When asked what is it about facing the Italian that helps Alcaraz raise his level, the 21-year-old thanked Sinner. He praised the reigning US Open champion for his consistency throughout the year.

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Alcaraz claimed that playing against Sinner forced him to play his best tennis. He then talked about their matchup and claimed that the three matches he won against the World No.1 could have gone the other way too.

Thanks to him, I raise my level to the top. I always play my best tennis against him. He has shown throughout the year that he’s the best player in the world. The way he plays is unbelievable, the best ball striker on the tour. It has been really close. I could have ended up losing the 3 matches but I’m happy to play against him every time because I know that I can raise my level.

Carlos Alcaraz said

Sinner and Alcaraz have played against each other four times this year (three tour-level matches and one exhibition match). While the Spaniard won all three tour-level games, Sinner defeated Alcaraz in the Six Kings Slam final. Their current head-to-head record stands at 6-4 in Alcaraz’s favor.

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Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner might meet in one more final

The Carlos Alcaraz–Jannik Sinner rivalry is in its initial phase. While it has entertained the fans in its infancy, the rivalry is expected to grow bigger and bigger. Some experts also predict it to reach the level of rivalry between the players from the Big Three.

Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz (2)
Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz (Images via X)

While that looks distant, another final between Alcaraz and Sinner looks like a great possibility. With both players looking for their maiden title at the Paris Masters, a thrilling tournament awaits the fans. Sinner, the top seed, has already clinched ATP Year-End No. 1.

The 23-year-old has won seven tour-level titles this year and will attempt to claim an eighth this week in Paris. He has tallied a 1-2 record in the tournament, including a loss to Alcaraz in his debut in 2021. Meanwhile, Alcaraz is the second seed in the tournament.

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Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz (2)

Two years ago, the Spaniard earned his best Paris Masters result, reaching the quarterfinals. The World No. 2 will play Nicolas Jarry or a qualifier/lucky loser in his opening match. Alcaraz has won four titles this year, most recently claiming the crown in Beijing.