**Jannik Sinner Makes One Thing Crystal Clear Ahead of Rome Final vs. Carlos Alcaraz**
Jannik Sinner, the World No. 1, left no doubt about his mindset heading into the 2025 Italian Open final against Carlos Alcaraz on May 18, making it crystal clear that he’s ready to deliver his absolute best to win the title on home soil. In a post-semifinal press conference after defeating Tommy Paul 1-6, 6-0, 6-3, Sinner stated, “If I want to win Sunday, I have to play some of my best tennis. Carlos played some incredible tennis today. Let’s see what’s coming. From my side, it’s incredible to be here in the final.” This quote, shared by @TheTennisLetter on X, underscores Sinner’s determination to rise to the occasion against his fiercest rival.
Sinner’s clarity reflects his acknowledgment of the challenge posed by Alcaraz, who defeated Lorenzo Musetti in the semifinals and went on to win the final 7-6(5), 6-4, per ESPN. Their head-to-head, tied at 5-5, promised a blockbuster clash, with Sinner emphasizing the need for peak performance to counter Alcaraz’s explosive clay-court game. He further described the matchup as “the perfect test of where I am at,” per Tennis Majors, highlighting its importance as a benchmark before Roland Garros.
Despite battling a foot blister that caused discomfort during his semifinal, Sinner dismissed concerns, saying, “I’m 100% not concerned,” per The Tennis Gazette, focusing instead on delivering in the final. Fans on X, like @Uzochuwu1, noted Sinner’s resolve, with posts praising his mental toughness despite the injury. The Italian’s statement also resonated with analysts, with Tim Henman noting that Sinner and Alcaraz “always bring out the best in each other,” per The Tennis Gazette.[](https://www.thetennisgazette.com/news/jannik-sinner-provides-fitness-update-ahead-of-the-italian-open-final-against-carlos-alcaraz-after-limping-in-his-semi-final-win/)[](https://www.thetennisgazette.com/news/tim-henman-says-what-always-happens-when-jannik-sinner-and-carlos-alcaraz-play-each-other-ahead-of-their-italian-open-clash/)
Sinner’s clear intent to play at his highest level, undeterred by physical challenges or Alcaraz’s form, set the stage for a thrilling final. Though he fell short, his focus on giving his all in front of the Rome crowd solidified his reputation as a fierce competitor
