"Jannik is a great rival," Alcaraz began his acceptance speech after receiving his second US Open trophy. "I see you more than my family. We've shared moments on the court, in the locker room, on the practice court... practically everywhere. Congratulations on a fantastic season, and to your excellent team."
Alcaraz defeated Sinner 6-3, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 in under three hours. He previously beat the Italian player in the finals of the French Open and Cincinnati Masters, but lost to him in the Wimbledon final. As the top two ranked players on the ATP Tour, they almost exclusively meet in finals. Earlier in the season, they even trained together and shared practice courts on several occasions.
"I was really nervous walking onto the court," Alcaraz added. "But once the match started, it felt like a normal match. Maybe because I'm so used to playing Sinner."
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Alcaraz (right) and Sinner on the podium at the 2025 US Open, Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York, USA on 7/9. Photo: Reuters |
Alcaraz (right) and Sinner on the podium at the 2025 US Open, Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York, USA on 7/9. Photo: Reuters
Alcaraz thanked his coaching team, referring to them as his second family. He stated, "My success is also theirs. Thank you for all your efforts, both on and off the court." Coach Juan Carlos Ferrero and the rest of the coaching staff have been with Alcaraz since before he turned professional. Together, they've won six Grand Slams among 23 titles – a record comparable to his compatriot, Rafael Nadal, at the same age.
Alcaraz could become the youngest player to complete a career Grand Slam if he wins next year's Australian Open, a tournament Sinner has dominated for the past two years. Among the legends, Nadal completed his career Grand Slam at the age of 24.
Speaking to his home country's television channel, Movistar Plus, after the US Open final, Alcaraz said his legs were shaking as he served for the championship. "The memory of my serve against Casper Ruud in the 2022 final came flooding back," he said. "I felt like I could recreate it, and sure enough, it came back to help me win the trophy."
Alcaraz will reclaim the world number one ranking when the points are updated next week, ending Sinner's 65-week reign. The two players will continue to compete in major events later this year, including the Shanghai Masters, Paris Masters, and ATP Finals.
Vy Anh
