Sinner and Alcaraz will face off at 1 a.m. on 8/9 Hanoi time.
Wilander suggests that Alcaraz and Sinner are creating a captivating rivalry, reminiscent of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal two decades ago.
"Alcaraz and Sinner will meet in at least 15 Grand Slam finals," Wilander predicted. "I don't see anyone else capable of breaking into their dominance if they maintain their current form. Their exceptional skill was evident in the Roland Garros final. They are incredibly difficult to beat."
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Alcaraz (right) and Sinner are considered by Wilander to be superior to the rest. Photo: Reuters |
Alcaraz (right) and Sinner are considered by Wilander to be superior to the rest. Photo: Reuters
According to Wilander, Alcaraz and Sinner play a different style of tennis compared to the previous generation, characterized by aggressive, powerful shots and an eagerness to approach the net. While capable of sustained baseline rallies, both prioritize quick points whenever possible.
"For years, we've seen Daniil Medvedev as the most consistent player on hard courts," Wilander said. "Then, with Sinner's speed, we see a significant difference. Sinner attacks the ball instead of waiting for it, applying immense pressure. Alcaraz does the same, leaving his opponents with no time to breathe. Tsitsipas, Zverev, and Medvedev tend to wait for the ball."
Wilander believes Alcaraz and Sinner possess exceptional talent, comparable even to the legendary "Big 3". He stated, "This year's Roland Garros final showcased a level of tennis never before seen. It was essential for Sinner and Alcaraz to make their mark, demonstrating their potential to achieve even greater things than their predecessors."
Alcaraz and Sinner have faced each other in five consecutive finals, including today's US Open. This marks the first time in the Open Era that three Grand Slam finals in a single year feature the same two players. Sinner has achieved the second-longest winning streak in Grand Slam hard court history with 27 consecutive victories, trailing only Federer's record of 40. Alcaraz will make history as the first player to win the US Open without dropping a set if he defeats Sinner 3-0.
Vy Anh
