On September 7, 2025, Carlos Alcaraz delivered a masterclass to defeat Jannik Sinner 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 in the US Open men’s final, securing his second US Open title and sixth Grand Slam overall. The victory in New York not only propelled the 22-year-old Spaniard back to the world No. 1 ranking but also sparked a respectful disagreement with Sinner over the Italian’s self-assessment of being “too predictable.” Alcaraz’s triumph, followed by his withdrawal from the upcoming Davis Cup, underscores his dominance and strategic career management.
A Final for the Ages
The 2025 US Open final was a showcase of tennis at its finest, with Alcaraz and Sinner trading blows in a two-hour, 42-minute battle. Alcaraz started with blistering intensity, taking the first set 6-2 with powerful forehands and deft drop shots. Sinner, the reigning world No. 1, responded in the second set, using his consistent groundstrokes to level the match 6-3. However, Alcaraz’s relentless energy and versatility shone in the third set, which he won 6-1, and he held firm in a tightly contested fourth set to clinch the title 6-4.
The win marked Alcaraz’s third consecutive victory over Sinner in Grand Slam finals in 2025, following their clashes at the French Open and Wimbledon. With this triumph, Alcaraz became the youngest player to win six Grand Slam titles in the Open Era, solidifying his status as a generational talent.
The Disagreement: Predictability vs. Familiarity
In the post-match press conference, Sinner reflected on his performance, suggesting his game lacked the variety needed to counter Alcaraz. “I have to evolve my game a little bit more,” Sinner said. “I felt like today, it was a little bit too predictable. Maybe next time, I have to use a little bit more serve-volley, a little bit more drop shots, just to mix it up a little bit.” His candid self-critique pointed to a need for tactical adjustments to challenge Alcaraz’s dynamic style.
Alcaraz, however, offered a different perspective, rejecting the idea that Sinner’s game was predictable. “I wouldn’t say I read his game, that he was predictable, but I know him,” Alcaraz explained. “It’s been so many matches against him. As he said, as well, he watches a lot of my matches just to study my game. I do the same. I watch a lot of his matches. First of all, because I love watching him play. I think it is unbelievable what he’s doing. Secondly, it’s because I love to study him, how he plays, how he feels on the tournaments just so if I played him in that tournament, just to have feedback how he’s been playing in the tournaments. I wouldn’t say he’s predictable, but I know his style. I know what he’s going to do or his main weapons in his game, so I just try to be focused on that.”
Alcaraz’s comments highlight the depth of their rivalry, built on mutual respect and meticulous preparation. Having faced Sinner 10 times, with Alcaraz leading 6-4, both players study each other extensively. Alcaraz’s ability to anticipate Sinner’s “main weapons” — such as his powerful baseline game — allowed him to dictate key moments with his speed, variety, and improved serve, which was a standout feature in the final.
A Rivalry Defining the Future
The Alcaraz-Sinner rivalry is quickly becoming the cornerstone of men’s tennis. Their three Grand Slam final meetings in 2025 have showcased contrasting styles — Alcaraz’s explosive athleticism and creativity against Sinner’s metronomic consistency and power. Alcaraz’s admiration for Sinner’s game, coupled with his strategic focus, underscores the mental and tactical chess match that defines their encounters. Sinner’s determination to add unpredictability, meanwhile, signals his intent to close the gap.
This mutual drive for improvement promises more thrilling battles. As Alcaraz noted, both players watch each other’s matches not just for scouting but out of genuine appreciation for their craft. This respect elevates their rivalry, making it a beacon for tennis fans eager for the post-Big Three era.
Davis Cup Withdrawal: A Strategic Move
Following his US Open triumph, Alcaraz announced his withdrawal from Spain’s Davis Cup qualifier against Denmark, set for the week of September 8, 2025. While no explicit reason was given, the decision aligns with a trend among top players, including Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Jack Draper, who have also opted out of post-US Open commitments. The physical and mental toll of a Grand Slam, especially one as demanding as the US Open, often prompts players to prioritize recovery over immediate team events.
Alcaraz’s withdrawal reflects a calculated approach to his career. At just 22, he is managing his schedule to sustain peak performance across a long season, with the Asian swing and ATP Finals on the horizon. His absence from the Davis Cup is a loss for Spain but a testament to his focus on longevity and consistency.
Looking Ahead
Carlos Alcaraz’s 2025 US Open victory reaffirms his place at the pinnacle of tennis. His ability to outmaneuver Sinner, combined with his thoughtful rebuttal of the “predictable” claim, showcases both his on-court brilliance and off-court maturity. As he continues to evolve, adding strength to his serve and refining his all-court game, Alcaraz is poised to dominate for years to come.
For Sinner, the loss is a chance to regroup and innovate, with his comments suggesting a commitment to tactical growth. The tennis world eagerly awaits their next clash, as their rivalry continues to shape the sport’s future. For now, Alcaraz basks in his latest triumph, a champion who blends humility with an unrelenting drive to win.
