Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have announced they will meet in an exhibition match in South Korea just days before the start of the 2026 Australian Open. The event, organized by Hyundai Card, is expected to draw significant attention as two of tennis’s brightest stars continue their growing rivalry.
Social media reveal and event details
Both players shared the news on their social media accounts, posting a joint photo with the caption “see you in Korea.” The match is part of the Hyundai Super Match series, which has previously featured legends such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Maria Sharapova, and Venus Williams.
According to The Chosun Daily, the exhibition is scheduled for January 10 at the Incheon Inspire Arena in Seoul. If confirmed, this would likely rule out Sinner and Alcaraz from participating in any ATP tournaments in the lead-up to the Australian Open, which begins on January 18.
A strategic warm-up for Melbourne
Sinner enters the 2026 season as the defending champion in Melbourne, while Alcaraz is aiming to capture his first Australian Open title. A win in Melbourne would complete the career Grand Slam for the Spaniard before his 23rd birthday.
The exhibition in Seoul offers both players a high-profile yet low-pressure opportunity to fine-tune their games before the season’s first Grand Slam. Organizers have not yet officially confirmed the date or venue, stating only that they “will soon confirm and announce the date, venue, ticket sales schedule, and other details.”
A rivalry renewed
Sinner and Alcaraz have faced each other 15 times on the ATP Tour, with Alcaraz leading their head-to-head 10–5. Their most recent meeting came not on the Tour, but in the final of an exhibition event in Saudi Arabia, where Sinner emerged victorious and earned $6 million in prize money, including a $1.5 million appearance fee.
Their rivalry has become one of the most compelling in men’s tennis, blending contrasting styles and personalities. The Korean exhibition adds another chapter to their ongoing battle, with both players expected to meet again later this year at the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals in Turin.
Current form and upcoming schedule
Sinner is currently competing in Basel, continuing his strong run of form from the second half of 2025. Alcaraz, meanwhile, is set to return to action in Paris after a brief break. Both players are considered top contenders for the Australian Open, and their exhibition in Seoul will offer fans a preview of what could unfold in Melbourne.
As anticipation builds, the Korean showcase promises not only entertainment but also insight into the evolving dynamic between two of the sport’s most exciting talents.
ATP Vienna - Jannik Sinner's projected path
Jannik Sinner in 2025
Ranked no.2, Sinner played his last match on the 5th of October when he had to retire when playing against world no.28 Tallon Griekspoor in the 3rd round and the scoreline was 6-7(3) 7-5 3-2 .
Currently, during this year the Italian has managed to achieve a composed 43-6 match record. Jannik has won 3 titles in 2025 at the Australian Open, Wimbledon and Beijing. Jannik was the finalist in Rome, French Open, Cincinnati and U.S. Open.
Sinner has scheduled to compete next in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 27th of October.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2025
At the moment ranked no.1, Carlos played his last match on the 30th of September when he defeated world no.4 Taylor Fritz 6-4 6-4 in the final in Tokyo to win his 25th career title.
During this season the Spaniard has achieved a composed 67-7 record. Carlos clinched 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. The Spaniard was the runner-up in Barcelona and Wimbledon.
He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). The main draw will start on the 27th of October.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz fought against each other 16 times. Their record is 11-5 for Alcaraz.