The Arthur Ashe showdown on 7/9 marked the first time in the Open Era that the same two players met in three Grand Slam finals in a single year. Alcaraz's victories at Roland Garros and the US Open extended his head-to-head record against Sinner to 10-5. The Spaniard has won seven of their last eight encounters.

Alcaraz displayed dominant form throughout the tournament, winning every set and dropping only two games before the final. In the more than three-hour battle with Sinner, Alcaraz seemed to do whatever he pleased with the ball. The 22-year-old served exceptionally well, unleashing powerful forehands with near-perfect accuracy. He also showcased a diverse playing style, constantly varying the speed, spin, and trajectory of his shots. This kept Sinner off balance, preventing him from finding his usual rhythm and powerful baseline game.

Alcaraz (left) and Sinner on the podium at the 2025 US Open, Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York, USA on 7/9. _Photo: Reuters_

The classic match between the two "new giants" of tennis was unexpectedly overshadowed by the presence of former US President Donald Trump. Throughout the night before the match, Arthur Ashe Stadium was surrounded by airport-like security. Fans were subjected to intense scrutiny as they queued to enter.

The men's singles trophy was placed in a VIP room next to Trump, deviating from standard protocol. When the former president's image appeared on the big screen after the first set, a chorus of boos erupted from the stands.

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) struggled with security issues. The stringent checks resulted in long lines snaking across the grounds, delaying the final by over half an hour. Even as the match began, thousands of spectators were still finding their seats, with hundreds remaining outside during the second set.

No one anticipated a rematch of the Roland Garros and Wimbledon finals more than Alcaraz. The Spaniard started enthusiastically, showcasing his all-around game. He maintained his impressive serving form, dominating and controlling the match with varied forehands.

Alcaraz's performance was highlighted by his ability to deploy multiple techniques, forcing Sinner to contend with unpredictable shots. He challenged his opponent with drop shots, net approaches, changes in trajectory, and delicate volleys.

Alcaraz celebrates his victory at the 2025 US Open final, Arthur Ashe Stadium, New York, USA on 7/9. _Photo: Reuters_

Rain closed the roof, typically considered advantageous for Sinner due to the windless indoor conditions. However, Alcaraz still delivered a flawless opening set, winning 6-2.

After enduring significant pressure for over an hour, Sinner rallied during Alcaraz's service game at 1-2 in the second set. He secured a crucial point with a volley to lead 30-0 and then broke serve.

Alcaraz, who committed only two unforced errors in the first set, made 10 in the second. Sinner won 73% of his first-serve points, holding serve for the remainder of the set to win 6-3, leveling the match. This marked Alcaraz's first dropped set of the tournament, ending his bid to become the first champion to win every set.

Two months prior at Wimbledon, Sinner also lost the opening set but rebounded to win three straight. This scenario didn't repeat itself. Alcaraz immediately regained control, restoring his serve, shot variety, and baseline dominance. After an early break, he swept through the third set 6-1.

With his back against the wall, Sinner fought valiantly. He won several intense rallies characteristic of their rivalry, including a break-point save in the first game of the fourth set with a spectacular volley that brought the crowd to its feet.

But with Alcaraz playing freely at his peak, his game reached an untouchable level. He closed out the fourth set 6-4, securing the championship after two hours and 44 minutes.

Alcaraz capped off a perfect tournament by defeating his biggest rival, snapping Sinner's 27-match hard-court major winning streak. He hit 42 winners, double Sinner's total. Alcaraz lost only nine points on his first serve throughout the match – a testament to his dominance. This sixth Grand Slam title propelled Alcaraz to the top of the ATP rankings, reclaiming the world number one spot after two years.

Vy Anh