Carlos Alcaraz is gearing up for an exhilarating showdown against Jannik Sinner in the upcoming final of the Italian Open, a highly anticipated event set to take place on Sunday. As the excitement builds around this match, Alcaraz finds himself reflecting not only on the clash with the Italian star but also on his status as a potential favorite at the upcoming Roland-Garros tournament.
Despite not showcasing his best form during his semi-final match against Lorenzo Musetti, where he experienced moments of struggle, Alcaraz expressed his eagerness to face Sinner on what is essentially the latter’s home turf. Following his hard-fought win against Musetti and on the brink of Sinner’s match against Tommy Paul, the Spaniard spoke candidly to the media. He acknowledged the fierce competition he expects from Sinner, stating, “It could be great, I’m not going to lie. Who knows? He’s playing great. I’ve been watching his matches. His level is really high right now.”
Alcaraz emphasized the challenge that comes with playing in front of Sinner’s home crowd, noting, “Every time that I play against him it is always a battle, is always really, really tough. I kind of enjoy those moments, as well. But if I play him in the final, it would be even more challenging playing against him at home with the people behind him, supporting him.” This anticipatory tone signals the high stakes involved in their impending clash, as well as Alcaraz’s readiness to take on the arduous challenge that lies ahead.
Looking further afield, anticipation is mounting for the French Open, which is set to commence on May 25. Viewers can catch all the action live on TNT Sports and discovery+. Alcaraz goes into this prestigious tournament as the reigning champion, following his impressive victory in 2024.
In the wake of his match against Musetti, Alcaraz addressed comments made by Musetti, who had expressed belief that Alcaraz would be the player to beat at Roland-Garros. “It is great that someone like Lorenzo, who is in the top 10, sees myself as the favourite of Roland-Garros,” he remarked. However, Alcaraz was quick to downplay the pressure by adding, “I say so many times, I don’t want to think about it. All I can say is, I’m feeling great. I have a lot of confidence right now.”
He expressed his enthusiasm for competing at Roland-Garros, adding, “Yes, I would love to go to Roland-Garros and try to enjoy the tournament and being in Paris.” This statement reflects both his competitive spirit and the joy he derives from participating in such high-profile events.
On the other hand, Jannik Sinner has his sights set on capturing what would be his first French Open title. Having reached the semi-finals last year, where he was defeated by Alcaraz in a grueling five-set match, Sinner is looking to make a statement as he approaches this year’s tournament. Following his victory over Paul, Sinner conveyed the significance of playing against Alcaraz, stating, “We know each other quite well and now it’s always special to share the court with him.”
The 23-year-old Italian also touched on the tactical approach required for such encounters, emphasizing, “I feel like we both know how to play against each other a little bit, so we have to be prepared tactically.” He acknowledged that this match would serve as an invaluable opportunity for both players as they prepare for the forthcoming Grand Slam events—Roland-Garros and Wimbledon. Sinner shared, “But for me, this is good, because I see where I have to improve and what I have to do better.”
As fans eagerly await this monumental match in Rome, it is clear that both Alcaraz and Sinner are not only competing for a title but are also preparing themselves for what lies ahead in the tennis calendar. The upcoming final promises to deliver thrilling moments, with both players displaying their immense talent on one of the sport’s biggest stages. The Italian Open final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner is set to be an event not to be missed, providing an electrifying prelude to the excitement of the French Open.