What did you think of Alcaraz’s performance in the 2025 US Open final?

He gave 100%, which is easier said than done. His match today was truly perfect. I think Carlos played very aggressively, always trying to take the initiative and put pressure on before Jannik could do the same. That was one of the keys to the match.

Alcaraz's expression after a long rally with Jannik Sinner in the 2025 US Open final. Photo: AP

Alcaraz's expression after a long rally with Jannik Sinner in the 2025 US Open final. Photo: AP

What was the difference between the two players in this match?

Both hit the ball very quickly, and the one who dictated play usually had the advantage. Carlos is perhaps more versatile in his game, with drop shots and net approaches that Jannik doesn't have, and this helped a lot in how he dealt with Jannik, changing the dynamics of the match.

What lessons did you and Alcaraz learn from the loss to Sinner in the Wimbledon final to prepare for this match?

The best thing about Carlos is that he's like a chameleon: you can ask him anything during a match, and he will adapt and accomplish it. We reviewed previous matches, both Roland Garros where he won and Wimbledon where he lost, to identify small points and ask Carlos to improve some new skills for the next matches against Jannik.

We trained together for 15 days, focusing intensely on these details. In just 10 days, Carlos made significant progress. We knew that on hard courts, Jannik is very difficult to play against. I think that research and training really helped Carlos because he realized he needed to improve many things.

Alcaraz himself admitted to being more mature at this year's US Open. What has changed in him?

I don't think Carlos has changed much, he's just maturing. It's normal as you grow up, according to the natural order of life. We know very well what he needs to improve both on and off the court. And I think he's more mature in realizing that there are still aspects he can continue to perfect in the future.

Alcaraz retrieves a shot during the 2025 US Open final. Photo: AP

Alcaraz retrieves a shot during the 2025 US Open final. Photo: AP

Alcaraz has changed his serve technique. How much has this improved his game?

This change started when we were preparing for the Australian Open. In 12/2024, we decided to adjust Carlos' serve technique slightly. We knew it would take time for it to be truly effective on the court. I think now is when he's made the most significant progress in this technique, and it has really helped. At Cincinnati and the US Open, I think his serve was one of the keys to his winning these tournaments.

What do you think about the rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz, and can their current dominance compare to the trio of Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, and Novak Djokovic?

20 years ago, with Roger, Rafa, and Novak, no one could have predicted how things would turn out. It’s difficult to compare. If I had to answer right now, I would say yes, the rivalry between Carlos and Jannik is of that caliber. But who knows if, in the future, another player might emerge and compete for major titles?

Hoang Thong (according to L'Equipe)