Carlos Alcaraz, the 2022 US Open champion, hailed Jannik Sinner’s “unbelievable” hardcourt dominance as the two prepare for a potential blockbuster final at the 2025 US Open, which began August 24. Speaking at his pre-tournament press conference, Alcaraz highlighted Sinner’s 21-match winning streak in hardcourt Grand Slams, noting, “The last three Grand Slams on hard court he won… It’s been unbelievable the tennis he’s bringing” (web:3). Their rivalry, dubbed “Sincaraz,” sets the stage for a thrilling showdown at Flushing Meadows.
Alcaraz’s Admiration for Sinner
Alcaraz, seeded No. 2, expressed admiration for Sinner’s consistency, saying, “Jannik has the capacity of being there mentally, point-after-point, not having ups and downs. The way he moves, the way he hits the ball—it’s amazing” (web:1). Sinner, the No. 1 seed and defending champion, has won the last three hardcourt majors (Australian Open 2024, 2025, and US Open 2024), remaining unbeaten in such events since a 2023 US Open loss to Alexander Zverev (web:4). Alcaraz, fresh off a Cincinnati Open title where Sinner retired trailing 5-0 due to illness, aims to end this streak, jokingly adding, “If I beat him, much more… He has a big target, his back!” (web:0).
The Rivalry and US Open Paths
The “Sincaraz” rivalry has captivated tennis, with Alcaraz leading 9-5 head-to-head, including a 3-2 edge in majors (web:22). Their 2025 clashes include Alcaraz’s epic five-set French Open final win and Sinner’s Wimbledon final triumph (web:15). They can’t meet until the US Open final, with Alcaraz facing Reilly Opelka first and potential matchups against Daniil Medvedev and Novak Djokovic, while Sinner opens against Vit Kopriva, possibly facing Jack Draper in the quarters (web:12). Alcaraz’s 54-10 season record contrasts with a shock 2024 US Open exit, fueling his hunger (web:17). Sinner’s 31-4 record, despite a doping controversy, underscores his resilience (web:15).
Broader Context
Alcaraz’s praise reflects a respectful rivalry, akin to Coco Gauff’s dynamic with Aryna Sabalenka or Luke Littler’s darts battles. Fans on X are buzzing, with one post stating, “Carlos vs. Jannik in the final would be electric!” (@TennisFanUSA, August 23, 2025) (post:3). Alcaraz’s focus on Sinner’s mental toughness mirrors his own growth, having overcome a 2024 Olympic loss to Djokovic (web:0). As both players vie for the No. 1 ranking, their potential US Open clash could define the next chapter of their era-defining rivalry, with Alcaraz eyeing Sinner’s “big target.”
