Sinner recalls his first meeting with Alcaraz and reflects on their growing rivalry.

Sinner

On Saturday morning Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz will face each other in an exhibition match in South Korea. The event is a special occasion for the two young champions, who have already created one of the most followed rivalries in modern tennis.

Sinner’s memory

During the press conference, Sinner recalled their first meeting and emphasized how Alcaraz’s talent was evident from the very beginning. “He was younger than me but I already saw someone who was special. When I told him ‘let’s hope to play more matches against each other,’ I said it more for myself because I was sure he would reach the level he is at now, while I wasn’t yet certain I would reach the position I hold today. In the end a great rivalry came out between us, and it’s good also off the court because we have a great relationship, we share the same values like caring for friends and family. For me it is always a pleasure to have the chance to face him, he is one of the best in the world,” said the Italian.

A growing rivalry

Sinner’s words confirm how the rivalry with Alcaraz has become a mutual stimulus, capable of raising the level of both. Their challenge is not limited to the court but is accompanied by respect and friendship, making each encounter even more meaningful.

Towards the new season

The exhibition in South Korea will be a prelude to the 2026 season and the upcoming Australian Open. Sinner and Alcaraz arrive as expected protagonists, ready to write new chapters in their rivalry and to deliver spectacle to fans around the world.

Jannik Sinner in 2025

Jannik Sinner

2 - 0win/loss

Hard
2-0
24 year old
LWW
2026 Highlights

Currently ranked no.2, Jannik played his last match on the 16th of November 2025 when he beat world no.1 Carlos Alcaraz 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals to win his 25th career title.

Presently, during this year Sinner has managed to achieve a composed 58-6 match record.

He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters) after Vienna. The main draw will start on the 20th of October.

Sinner
the Nitto ATP Finals
Sinner's Record

Carlos Alcaraz in 2025

Carlos Alcaraz

3 - 0win/loss

Hard
3-0
22 year old
WWWW
2026 Highlights

Ranked no.1, the Spaniard played his last match on the 16th of November 2025 when he capitulated to world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).

At present, during this year the Spaniard has a 71-9 win-loss record.

He is also scheduled to play in Paris (Rolex Paris Masters). The main draw will start on the 27th of October.

Alcaraz
the Nitto ATP Finals
Alcaraz's Record

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz faced off 17 times. Their current head to head is 11-6 for Alcaraz.