Well, Sinner aced it! Every champion carves their own path, but some milestones carry names that can’t be ignored. On Sunday, Jannik Sinner joined Roger Federer in rare company by defending the ATP Finals title with a 7-6(4), 7-5 win over Carlos Alcaraz. With this win against Alcaraz, he not only managed to extend his winning streak on indoor hard courts to 31 matches but also became the ninth man in history to win back-to-back ATP Finals. Also, the youngest to defend this title since Roger Federer (in 2004).

Do you know that since the ATP Finals’ inauguration in 1970, Jannik Sinner (2024-25) has now become the first player to win this tournament without conceding a set in multiple and consecutive years? The numbers made headlines. But the moment that truly defined the night happened after the last ball was struck.

With the trophy in his hands and the crowd roaring, Sinner took a deep breath and turned towards his fierce rival, Carlos Alcaraz. What followed wasn’t just a victory speech; it was a moment of pure sportsmanship, the kind that makes rivalries legendary rather than hostile. He said, “Amazing season, Carlos. Amazing what you’re doing. The whole team. I know it’s a lot of work. A lot of great memories you’ve done for your career. Well deserved for the No.1. We haven’t spoken yet. But I’m extremely happy. If it’s another player than me, I’ll always choose you. You are definitely a player I look up to. A lot of motivation… I need this.”

He even hailed Alcaraz as the “most energetic player on Tour” and wished him all the very best for the rest of the season. Later on, when he was asked if he could have a deep friendship with his greatest rival, Sinner said, “With Carlos, it’s also a bit different because of on-court reasons. We have a very good relationship, or rivalry, call it however. I feel like we can talk about everything still. I think it’s great. We are good friends off the court. We do respect us in a very healthy way. Also, the teams, my team, get along very well with them. I think it’s a good harmony. At the same time, there’s also the work and all the rest behind, which it’s all about balance.”

Their rivalry is electric. Yes, but it is also unexpectedly warm. And in a sport filled with iconic duels, theirs stands out for one simple reason: their friendship grows even as the battles intensify. What did Carlos Alcaraz say about Jannik Sinner after the match, though?

Carlos Alcaraz congratulates Jannik Sinner on his victory

Rivalries, historically, come with a touch of distance – Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal didn’t bond early, Novak Djokovic was carefully kept at arm’s length, and Andy Murray often found himself as the outsider. But Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz? They rewrote the script from day one. 

Their first clash came years ago, two teenagers still growing into their frames, still discovering who they would become. Even then, the tennis community whispered about their potential. Their ball-striking was uncanny, their athleticism prodigious. But what truly caught attention was the mutual respect they carried, even in the heat of a match. They weren’t just shaking hands; they were talking, smiling, and exchanging tiny gestures of goodwill.

That dynamic only deepened as their careers soared. After securing his sixth win in their sixteen meetings, Jannik Sinner literally spoiled Carlos Alcaraz’s year-end party. However, shortly after the match, the Spaniard shared a heartfelt note on his X handle, congratulating the Italian superstar. “Congratulations for the trophy and for the season, @janniksin and team! I hope to come back next year and fight for this title! Grazie a tutti! ,” Alcaraz wrote this in his tweet.

But not only that, even during the post-match interview, he spoke about the improvements he saw in Sinner since their meeting at the US Open final. “Obviously I felt the improvements of Jannik. I said many times, I think a player like him, he always comes back stronger from the losses. He always learns from the losses. Once again, he has shown everybody that he did it. Especially in the serves, putting so much pressure on you. It’s really difficult to play against him, obviously.”

Although there was a moment in the match during the first set when he was seen taking a medical timeout, Alcaraz clearly stated that this issue didn’t affect him much in the match. “Don’t get me wrong, because I’m not going to say I could play better or I could do something better if my hamstring were well. I could play a really good tennis with it. The loss is because he deserved it,” he said.

This yet again showed us how they complement each other in ways that only deepen their bond. But having said that, Carlos Alcaraz also said that he hopes to play against Jannik Sinner in more such finals in the upcoming years and also added a subtle warning, saying, “Hope you are going to be ready for next year, because I will be ready.”

What are your thoughts on this incredible rivalry, and how much would you rate their performances in 2025 out of 5? Share your thoughts in the comment box.

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With this 7-6(4), 7-5 win over the Spaniard, Sinner has now managed to extend his unbeaten run on indoor hard courts to 31 matches. What a season this has been for the Italian despite being out of action for almost three months due to the doping suspension. However, last year, he managed to finish the year as world number one, but this year, Alcaraz snatched away his crown.

Considering all of these, how does he look at the 2024 and 2025 seasons? During the post-match interview when Jannik Sinner was asked to make a comparison, he said, “Well, look, honestly I don’t want to compare. It’s an amazing season. Last year has been an amazing season. This year making four Grand Slam finals, coming here, winning here, having this big streak at the end of the year, it’s amazing.” Having said that, he also added, “But mostly I feel to be a better player than last year; I think this is the most important. It’s all part of the process. I always say and believe that if you keep working and trying to be a better player, the results, they’re going to come. This year it was like this.”

The reply was quite classic from the Italian – measured, grounded, and uninterested in narratives that pit one version of himself against another. Even as the tennis world buzzed around him, he remained focused on the only story he cared about: his growth. In that interview, Sinner further added, “Of course, as I always say, the off-season, now we have a lot of time to adjust ourself already for next season, being as ready as possible. Honestly, amazing season, no? Many, many wins, and not many losses. All the losses I had, I tried to see the positive thing and trying to evolve me as a player. I feel like, or I felt like, this happened in a very good way. I’m extremely happy with the season.”

However, the former Australian tennis player Paul McNamee took to social media to plant his flag firmly in the debate. For him, Jannik Sinner’s 2025 wasn’t just great; it was historic. He tweeted, “I’d say THE the best season for a #2, and no doubt the most controversial.”

Coming from someone who has watched generations of players battle for supremacy, those words carried an unmistakable weight. McNamee’s view crystallized what so many fans have felt all year long: Sinner has played at a level that would’bve been enough to secure the world number one ranking in almost any other era. But in the swirling storm of competition, rivalries, and storyline-heavy twists, he remains perched just below the summit.

And maybe that’s why comparisons feel hollow to Jannik Sinner. The numbers matter, but the journey matters more. What did others in the tennis world say about this incredible battle in Turin, featuring two of the biggest stars in the sport?

Tennis world reacts to Jannik Sinner’s stunning victory against Carlos Alcaraz

Under the glowing lights of Turin, with the crowd buzzing in anticipation, Jannik Sinner walked onto the court carrying not just a racket but the weight of a rivalry that has defined men’s tennis in recent years. Across the net stood Carlos Alcaraz – fiery, fearless, and the kind of competitor who never gives anyone an easy night. What unfolded next was a masterclass from the Italian hero, a performance so composed and electrifying that even the sport’s icons couldn’t hold back their admiration. 

With this win, Sinner has now taken his H2H record to 6-11 against the Spaniard. But this was just his second win against Alcaraz this season. After the match we saw Carlos Alcaraz heaping praise on Sinner by saying, “Obviously I felt the improvements of Jannik. I said many times, I think a player like him, he always comes back stronger from the losses. He always learns from the losses. Once again, he has shown everybody that he did it. Especially in the serves, putting so much pressure on you. It’s really difficult to play against him, obviously.”

Since the event’s inauguration in 1970, Jannik Sinner (2024-25) is the first player to win the ATP Finals without conceding a set in multiple and consecutive years. Reacting to his incredible performance, during a conversation on Tennis Channel, Jim Courier said, “It’s just remarkable at what he’s doing. And just to underscore, when you’re playing this tournament, that’s 10 consecutive wins in this tournament against top eight players. I mean, it’s just absurd the level that he’s been bringing, without dropping a set. It’s amazing, and he’s gonna finish the year feeling awfully good about himself. And I think this match was a real tipping point for how that he would view his off season.”

Emma Raducanu’s ex-coach, Mark Petchey, highlighted a big change in Sinner’s game during his win over the current world number one. He stated that Sinner did a nice job on his second serve, much better than what he did even at the US Open.  

While Coco Gauff’s ex-coach, Brad Gilbert, tweeted, “Unbelievable effort from Sin City wins year-end @atptour championships back-to-back years without dropping a set, finishes the year on 3 straight indoor titles trophy   .”

The indoor maestro of this generation had once again proven that under the bright, pressurized spotlight of the ATP Finals, he thrives. His precision, his calm, and his ability to rise in big moments left an impact so strong that even tennis royalty couldn’t help but stand and applaud. But can Jannik Sinner carry forward a similar momentum in 2026?

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Both these players have been superb this season. On one side, we’ve seen Alcaraz clinching 8 titles, which include the French Open and the US Open. Then on the other side, Sinner has bagged 5 titles (including AO and Wimbledon) despite being out of action for three months due to the doping suspension. Before the ATP Finals, the Spaniard was asked if he would be disappointed if Sinner snatched away the No. 1 from him. Replying to that, Alcaraz said, “If he finishes first, it’s because he’s earned it and has had a magnificent end to the season… I am going to try to fight to prevent that from happening. If it does happen, it wouldn’t be a disappointment.”

Even after his recent win over Lorenzo Musetti, which secured his world number one crown, Alcaraz spoke about how overwhelmed he was by Jannik Sinner’s incredible fight for the world number one crown. These sentiments capture both humility and admiration. Adding to that note, Sinner has now shared his first reaction to Carlos Alcaraz’s world number one glory. After beating Ben Shelton in straight sets in the final group stage match, he opened up on this during the post-match interview. Sinner said, “I’m happy for him, but if I told you I was super happy… I’d be telling a lie! But he deserves it; he’s had an incredible season… He’s won two Slams and eight tournaments. He’s playing at a very high level; he’s competitive on any surface.”

For years, their duel has shaped the sport. Late-night classics, marathon rallies, and unforgettable momentum swings… fans have witnessed their careers unfold like parallel rising suns. And yet. Beneath all the competition, the two youngsters have grown into a symbol of modern sportsmanship. Sinner further added, “He had the pressure too; he managed it very well, but I’m glad for him. He’s a really good guy; he has a great team around him, and he’s earned these achievements. For me, this is motivation for next year. If I had to choose another player to end up #1, I’d always choose him; he deserves it.”

Jannik Sinner’s words came not from obligation or courtesy, but from a bond formed in the trenches of elite tennis. He knows better than anyone the price Carlos Alcaraz paid to reclaim the year-end crown. The injuries, the pressure of expectations, the responsibility of leading a new generation…these are battles Sinner fought too. So, even before his match, the Italian was seen congratulating Alcaraz by saying “Bravo” and giving him a high-five when he met him at the entrance. 

Do you know that this is the first year that Alcaraz and Sinner hold the number one and number two spots to end the season? Their rivalry will continue, and there’s no doubt about that. More finals, more drama, and more shared history waiting to unfold. Sinner’s message stands out as a rare, honest tribute in a sport built on competition, but let me tell you, he wasn’t the only one to congratulate Alcaraz on his success. Even one of his team members joined that list!

Jannik Sinner’s coach praises Carlos Alcaraz for the world number one glory

Carlos Alcaraz had to wait for another three years to finally clinch the year-end number one crown. In 2022, he set a record by becoming the youngest man to do so. Over these three years, Alcaraz has not only become more mature but also managed to develop a game that has given him consistent results.

So, when he was asked to share a bit about how it feels to finally secure the world number one crown, the Spaniard said, “Well, it’s a great achievement. It was the goal to end the year as No. 1. Yeah, after getting the win in this match and know that I got and achieved my goal of the year, it means a lot. I think I’ve been playing great tennis. Excited about keep it going. I’m playing a semi-final here in the ATP Finals.”

All he now wants is to finish the year by securing yet reaching yet another goal, i.e., winning the ATP Finals. Can he do it? Time will tell! But his incredible achievement has drawn a reaction from Jannik Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill.

In June 2025, Cahill gave an interview with TNT Sports where he spoke about how Alcaraz has pushed Sinner to be more professional and develop his physicality. Then, before the 2025 Wimbledon final, the coach yet again heaped praise on these two youngsters by saying, “Jannik and Carlos are both incredible players and have the ability to push each other to the limit. They have already played several epic matches and will certainly be the two main protagonists of men’s tennis in the coming years.”

Now, after seeing Alcaraz securing the world number one crown, Jannik Sinner’s coach congratulated him through an IG story. He wrote, “Big congrats to Carlos Alcaraz and your entire team. An amazing effort.”

His congratulatory gesture was also a reflection of the understanding that both camps share. But let me tell you, this rivalry is just getting started, and we can surely expect the chase for the crowd to be even fiercer next year.

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The 24-year-old Italian recently took down America’s Ben Shelton by 6-3, 7-6(3), and with that, he added yet another feather to his cap. Since the ATP Finals’ inauguration in 1970, Sinner is now the first player to win three round robin matches without conceding a set in consecutive years. This was also his eighth consecutive win in Turin. Seeing Sinner’s sheer dominance on this surface, Coco Gauff’s ex-coach, Brad Gilbert, shared a tweet saying, “Sin City is so good indoors; his neutral balls do much more damage, also more more difficult to defend on gritty indoor court.”

Indoors, Jannik Sinner isn’t just playing better – his game becomes heavier, sharper, and drastically more suffocating. And the numbers back that up in historic fashion. Talking about numbers, we’ll also need to mention that he has now also tied Roger Federer after securing 17+ Top 10 wins in consecutive seasons. Federer did it in 2006-2007. It’ll be interesting to see if he can add a couple more from this tournament.

Next up for Sinner in the semis will be world number 7, Alex de Minaur. Despite losing two consecutive matches against Carlos Alcaraz and Lorenzo Musetti, the Aussie’s incredible triumph over Taylor Fritz earned him a spot in the semis. But let me remind you, De Minaur has a 0-12 record against Sinner. Can he finally figure out a way to open his account this time?

Tennis legend gives out valuable advice to Alex de Minaur ahead of his match against Jannik Sinner

Every rivalry has that turning-point moment, the one no one expects until it arrives. As Alex de Minaur gears up for his semifinal match against Jannik Sinner, the odds say one thing, but Tim Henman says another. With calm conviction, the former British tennis player offered the Australian a blueprint and a belief that could spark one of the boldest upsets of the season.

During a conversation on Sky Sports, Henman said, “Yeah, it’s not going to get easier, is it? But I definitely think that he’s got to play with that freedom. I mean, this is such a sort of bonus to be through to the semis. He’s playing Sinner in Italy; it’s one of those, you know, career moments, and so he will definitely go out and embrace it. He did an unbelievable job beating Fritz today. He’s up against it.”

Jannik Sinner has always been a nightmare matchup for the Aussie. The Italian’s power off both wings, his ability to rob time and flip defense to offense in a heartbeat… it has consistently sucked De Minaur out of his comfort zone. Can ‘Demon’ pull off a miracle this time?

Time will tell! But while sharing his thoughts about his incredible win against Fritz, Alex de Minaur said, “I have dealt with a fair bit of heartbreak recently, so it was good to finally get a win here in Turin. I have worked really hard, so it was good to get some positive feedback or a positive reward for the hard work, so I am very happy with the performance.”

Seeing his incredible performance against the American, even Jannik Sinner couldn’t stop himself from showering praise on him. He said, “First, I’m very happy for him. When you have these kinds of losses that he had against Lorenzo, it’s very tough. Props to him to come back with such an incredible performance. One of the best matches I’ve seen him play… against Taylor. I have to be very careful. He doesn’t have a lot to lose. I have a lot to lose.”

Sinner believes this is really going to be a difficult match this time. But what are your own thoughts on this? Let us know your picks in this SF duel.

The post Jannik Sinner’s Indoor Mastery Wins Praise From Coco Gauff’s Ex-Coach appeared first on EssentiallyTennis.

Recently, Alcaraz elevated his training regime with a bold and somewhat controversial approach that involves briefly restricting his own blood circulation. Fans were left stunned after spotting the 22-year-old wearing black straps around his legs during a warm-up at the ATP Finals in Turin. Everyone wondered if the Spaniard was dealing with some underlying injuries.

But the reality is these bands aren’t for fashion or comfort—they’re called BFR bands. These devices restrict circulation to the limbs, helping athletes strengthen muscles and prepare their bodies for competition. Carlos Alcaraz was first seen using this on his right arm in 2023, and then later on he incorporated them into both arms, and now he was seen doing the same thing on his legs during a gym session.

These bands were originally developed for injury rehabilitation. It tricks the body into thinking it’s under extreme strain, even when lifting lighter weights. For example, a person lifting just 20 kg can mimic the muscle strain of performing a 100-kg squat. The result? Greater muscle growth, endurance, and explosiveness—all while minimizing the risk of overtraining.

This practice has now expanded from medical use to fitness centers and eventually to elite sports. But let me tell you that Carlos Alcaraz wasn’t the first sports superstar to use this type of extreme method. According to Pedro L. Valenzuela, a researcher at Madrid’s 12 de Octubre Hospital, “Badminton player Carolina Marin used them during recovery from a serious knee injury. From there, they spread to athletes in general, because blood restriction helps build muscle even with low loads.” However, Alcaraz uses BFR bands at tournaments for ischemic preconditioning.

In this process, the bands are applied with higher pressure, completely cutting off circulation for up to 5 minutes, and then when they’re removed, blood rushes back into the muscles, delivering more oxygen and improving mobility. This process reduces pain and potentially also enhances performance during the matches.

However, athletes with vascular issues risk thrombosis and may refrain from even trying it. According to Valenzuela, “Some people don’t like them because they cause an unpleasant sensation. It’s what we call the nocebo effect. It’s like having your blood pressure taken for five minutes: your feet start to go numb, you feel a tingling sensation… Some people don’t want to use them.”

For Carlos Alcaraz, whose game thrives on power and speed, such innovation is no surprise. And even in the past, we’ve seen him making full use of modern technologies to take his game to further levels. For example, there have been multiple instances in the past where we’ve seen him wearing black tape on his nose during his matches. Even then, there were a lot of curiosities about what ‌the purpose was of this mysterious tape. Later on, as per the Sleep Foundation, those nasal strips are pieces of adhesive tape placed on the nose with the intention of widening the nostrils and increasing airflow, improving breathing as a result.

In a sport where the physical and mental demands only grow fiercer with each passing year, Carlos Alcaraz’s willingness to experiment with new technologies for further improvement sends a clear message to his rivals: he’s not just chasing greatness; he’s building it, one extreme session at a time. What’s up next for the Spaniard, though?

A win against Lorenzo Musetti could bring Carlos Alcaraz double rewards

Carlos Alcaraz has never been one to shy away from pressure as well. Whether it’s on the biggest Grand Slam stages or under the bright lights of the ATP Finals, he has built a reputation for thriving when the stakes are highest. Now, as he gears up to face Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti, Alcaraz finds himself on the cusp of not one—but two monumental rewards.

For the young Spaniard, this battle against Musetti isn’t just another group-stage encounter. A win would not only secure him the top spot in his group at the ATP Finals but also crown him the ATP Year-End No. 1—an honor every player dreams of but only a select few ever achieve.

After securing an easy victory against Alex de Minaur in the first match, Carlos Alcaraz was put to a real test against Taylor Fritz. Despite losing the first game, he eventually managed to win the match by 6(2)-7, 7-5, 6-3. Talking about his performance in that match, he even admitted, “Well, it was pretty tight, the match. I think I was running more than him, struggling more than him.”

Alcaraz was quite relieved to end that match on a winning note, but he needs to keep things a bit tidy in the next to fulfill his goal of finishing the year on the highest note. However, when asked to share his thoughts about nearing the world number one glory, he said, “I try not to think about it, to be honest. Obviously, it’s going to be a really big match for me; I will try to not let the nerves play a part in that match. I will try to control my emotions, control myself. I will try to think about my goals in the match, try to think about feeling much better than today, with the shots, the serve, with everything, but obviously, it’s going to be a big day.”

Carlos Alcaraz has faced Lorenzo Musetti 8 times in his career, and guess what? He has gotten the better of the Italian 7 times. Could we possibly see a similar dominance this time, or can we expect a surprise in Turin?

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With his incredible 6-4, 6-3 triumph over the world number 3, Alexander Zverev, the Italian not only secured his place in the semis but also achieved quite a few interesting milestones. Sinner has now won 28 consecutive matches on indoor hard courts, and his record against the Top 10 players since October 2023 at indoors is currently 20-1. But what truly makes Sinner so invincible under the roof?

In a rare moment of introspection, the 24-year-old finally shed light on the secret behind his indoor dominance. During a post-match interview, Jannik Sinner was asked if he had played a lot on these surfaces when he was young. Replying to that, Sinner said, “No, I generally didn’t play a lot when I was young, so… I feel like it suits my game style very well. It’s easier also in practice sessions to find rhythm. That’s it.”

The last time he lost a match on this surface was way back in the 2023 Nitto ATP Finals championship match against Novak Djokovic. In 2024, he became the first man to win the event without losing a set (since 1986). Guess what? Even this year, he is yet to drop a set. Sinner has won all the last 14 sets he played at the ATP Finals. 

Speaking more about the secret to his success on this surface in particular, Jannik Sinner added, “I feel like when someone hits fast, it’s very difficult to change the pace of the ball. So this for sure helps me a lot playing indoors. In the same time, I also try to change the pace because it is essential and it is important, especially with the difference of the players you play against. But yeah, you don’t have the wind, you don’t have the sun. You always have the same feeling on the court. It also helps you to feel more and more comfortable, at least from my side.”

Since 2000, Sinner (2023-25) has become just the fourth player to reach 3+ consecutive semi-finals at the ATP Finals. This was also his seventh consecutive win in Turin.

As the tennis world continues to debate the balance of power between the sport’s young stars, one thing remains clear: when the roof closes, the light brightens, and the surface glistens, Jannik Sinner becomes almost unbeatable.

Sinner has played around 61 matches this season; he won 55 out of them and lost just 6. But what does he remember more, the wins or the losses? Replying to this question, the world number 2 said, “I remember both. The losses you learn more, of course. Because you’ll be more careful. You have more time to think about what you could’ve done differently. Of course I also do remember the great moments, the nice moments. I feel like it’s all about balance. Trying to understand what I’m doing great and where I still have to work on things. That’s it.”

Jannik Sinner will next face America’s Ben Shelton, while for Alexander Zverev it’d be the Canadian Félix Auger-Aliassime. But before moving onto the next chapter, let’s check out what‌ Sinner and Zverev said about their epic battle in Turin.

Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev on the fierce battle in Turin

The scoreboard might have read 6-4, 6-3, but anyone who watched Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev clash in Turin knows it was anything but straightforward. Under the bright lights of the ATP Finals, two of the game’s finest ball strikers went toe-to-toe in a contest that brimmed with intensity, precision, and respect.

For Sinner, this was more than just another victory—it was a statement. Playing on home soil, the Italian sensation fed off the crowd’s energy, his clean, flat groundstrokes echoing through the Inalpi Arena like rifle shots. Yet, even in victory, Sinner remained humbled.

This was Jannik Sinner’s third victory in 17 days against Alexander Zverev and also his fifth consecutive win against the German. What did Sinner say about the match after becoming the fourth player to collect 16+ ATP Tour 10 wins in back-to-back years?

While sharing thoughts about this epic duel, Sinner admitted, “Very, very competitive. Very close match. I felt like I served really well in important moments. I tried to play the best tennis possible when it mattered. Fortunately it went my way today. We both changed a bit tactically. We both tried to hit quite fast, quite flat. I’m very happy, how I returned the serve. It’s very difficult… the group I’m in, with Sascha, with Ben, it’s very difficult to return the serves. But I’m very happy, and let’s see what’s coming in the next round.”

There were moments in this match when we saw Alexander Zverev looking a bit frustrated. Once when he failed to break Sinner’s serve, Zverev seemingly yelled, “Oh my God,” in anger before putting his racket in his mouth.

During the post-match interview, Zverev said, “I think generally today the match, the biggest difference was how he was serving on the break points. I had more break points than him. I felt very good from the baseline, actually better than in Vienna almost, when we were in the rally.

To be honest, he had two chances to break me, and he used both of them. I had a lot of chances, and I didn’t use any. The score was 6-4, 6-3, but in my opinion, my humble opinion, I felt like the match was closer than the score maybe says. I thought it was a very high-level match. I thought, especially from the baseline, we played very well.”

But this is how cruel the game can be at times, and according to Zverev, despite the loss, it was still a “good match.” According to him, Jannik Sinner used his chances better than him, and that’s exactly why the Italian ended up on the winning side.  

As Sinner moves forward, eyeing the ultimate crown at the ATP Finals, and Zverev regroups with fire in his eyes, both men will carry the lessons of this encounter. But what are your thoughts about their performances in this match?

The post Jannik Sinner Finally Unveils the Secret Behind His Indoor Hard-Court Mastery appeared first on EssentiallyTennis.

Despite an impressive start in this match, Felix Auger-Aliassime appeared to pull his left calf late in the first set while landing from a serve at 5-6. Although he kept playing after that, the injury clearly hampered his movement on the court. As a result of this, FAA had to lose the match to the world number 2 by 5-7, 1-6. This was his second loss against Sinner in their six encounters.

After the match, when Jannik Sinner was asked to share his thoughts about the match and his opponent, he said, “It was a very tough match until the 6-5. I had some chances to break. He served very, very well. Only once I missed the return. But it can happen. He played some very aggressive tennis. I’m happy I could overcome a tough test today. Obviously, winning the first match is very important in this format. So I’m very happy. Let’s see what’s coming. I hope it’s nothing too serious for Felix. I wish him a very, very speedy recovery. We all hope he’s getting back to 100% physically.”

With this win, Sinner has now extended his indoor hard court win streak to 27. Excluding Carlos Alcaraz, Sinner has won his past 25 matches against ATP Top 10 opponents, with his last defeat coming against Andrey Rublev at the 2024 Canadian Open. This win against FAA has now taken his win percentage to 84.6% (11-2) at the ATP Finals, and guess what? That’s the highest of any currently active player since the event’s inauguration (min 10 matches). 

Jannik Sinner is living a dream. Returning to Turin as the defending champion, the Italian has been riding a wave of form that few can match. Every time he steps on court, there’s an undeniable sense of belonging—a connection with his home fans that adds an extra spark to his already electric game.

This was Sinner’s sixth consecutive win in Turin, and he has now won twelve consecutive sets at this venue. Following this incredible win, he was asked to share his thoughts on how tough it was mentally to seal the deal in this epic battle. 

In reply to that, the Italian said, “You still have to be very consistent. With great balance on the court… Especially also mentally. It is a bit different, but at the same time, it’s also an advantage. You have to use it in the right way… Even if you don’t want to win like this. But if there’s a chance, you have to use it. It also changes when you’re set up and you see him struggle. It’s different. He’s a huge server… Especially indoors. You have to be very careful. But as I said, it’s not nice.”

Turin continues to bring out his best, and as long as he’s here, Italy will keep believing in its favorite son. What did Jannik Sinner say about his experience playing in front of such a wonderful home crowd in Turin?

Jannik Sinner speaks about his experience of returning to Turin as a defending champion

There’s something about Turin that brings out the very best in Jannik Sinner. As the lights dimmed inside the Inalpi Arena and the Italian crowd rose to its feet, a familiar chant echoed through the arena—’Sinner, Sinner!’ Once again, Turin had its hero. The defending champion at the ATP Finals showed exactly why this city has become his fortress, defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime in straight sets to extend his remarkable indoor winning streak.

Speaking about his return to Turin and securing a victory in the very first match, Jannik Sinner said, “This country gives me a lot honestly… representing Italy has always been a huge, huge honor. It’s nice to give something back also. When we have a chance to play in Italy… in Rome… here… It is great. I’m extremely happy to be here.” 

For Sinner, the ATP Finals in Turin aren’t just another tournament—they’re a homecoming. Every point he wins is met with a roar, every fist pump a shared moment between player and nation. The bond between the young Italian and his fans has only deepened since the breakout run here last year.

In the same post-match interview with Tennis Channel, he added, “I’m happy that I showed some good tennis. If I can, that’s my main priority. That’s why I’m here. At the end of the day, I’m a tennis player, and I want to do the best possible job. At the same time, I also enjoy it. It’s a great, great place to play in front of a massive home crowd. Seeing the stadiums packed… it’s amazing.”

This was Jannik Sinner’s 11th consecutive win, and with this win, he has now taken his win rate to 90% in 2025. It officially also puts him a fraction above his fierce rival, Carlos Alcaraz (89.5%). 

Turin continues to bring out his best, and as long as he’s here, Italy will keep believing in its favorite son. Do you think Jannik Sinner can defend his title in Turin this year?

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The Serb had qualified for the ATP Finals after Alcaraz and Sinner, but we saw him being a bit reluctant to confirm his presence in this year-ending event. Djokovic recently took part in the Hellenic Championship in Athens, and over there, he clinched his 101st ATP Tour title. However, shortly after his incredible win against Lorenzo Musetti, he shared a post on social media saying, “I was really looking forward to competing in Turin and giving my best, but after today’s final in Athens, I’m sad to share that I need to withdraw due to an ongoing injury. I’m truly sorry to the fans who were hoping to see me play.”

Novak Djokovic is one of the few players who has a favorable H2H record (5-4) against Carlos Alcaraz. So, in the post-match press conference, when the Spaniard was asked to share his thoughts about Djokovic’s withdrawal, he said, “I’m not going to lie, I prefer Lorenzo to Djokovic in the group. It’s always difficult to face Novak here because of his experience and his level on these courts. I lost to him in the 2023 semifinals, and I think I played well, but he crushed me. It’s clear that Musetti is in Turin because he deserves it. We’ll see how he adapts because he’s coming from playing in Athens and hasn’t had a chance to get a feel for the court.” 

As the young Spaniard prepares to continue his quest for year-end glory, his words reflect both humility and hunger. With Djokovic out and Musetti in, the narrative may have shifted—but for Alcaraz, the mission remains the same: to stamp his authority on the Tour, no matter who stands across the net. 

Against Musetti, Alcaraz has a head-to-head record of 6-1. With his 7-6(5), 6-2 win against Alex de Minaur in the previous match, he’s now set to face the Italian for the fourth time this season. Alcaraz has now also equalled Jannik Sinner (14) for the most Top-10 wins in 2025. What a season this has been for the Spaniard. This was his 68th win of the season, and in 2025, he has already won eight titles. So, winning the ATP Finals title would just be a cherry on top for the world number one. What else did Alcaraz say after the match?

Carlos Alcaraz reveals his goals for the rest of the 2025 season

Carlos Alcaraz arrived at the ATP Finals with a mix of excitement and nerves. The world number one knew the challenge that awaited him—facing some of the best players in the world at one of the toughest stages in the sport. After his win against Alex de Minaur, he admitted, “I was nervous at the beginning, so getting rid of that feeling helps a lot. Obviously, starting the tournament with a victory gives you confidence for the upcoming matches.”

For Carlitos, this wasn’t just another tournament; it was an opportunity to prove that his season’s hard work and persistence were paying off. “This year is a little different. I’ve done what’s necessary to get here motivated. I want to play good tennis to try and win this tournament. It’s one of the best we have on the calendar, and you play against the world’s top eight,” said Alcaraz.

This victory against ‘Demon’ has not only steadied Carlos Alcaraz’s nerves but also reignited his hunger, and all he now wants is to come out all guns blazing to accomplish his twin goals and finish the year on the highest note. Talking about goals, she said, “I’m fighting to win the title and the World No. 1 ranking. I’m satisfied with the way I played. It’s very difficult to play against De Minaur, and I’m already looking forward to the next match.”

As things stand, Alcaraz can clinch the year-end number one ranking if he wins all three of his group stage matches in Turin. However, even if he loses one match, he can still claim the crown by reaching the final next Sunday. However, his fierce competitor, Jannik Sinner, must defend his title to stand any chance while also requiring Alcaraz to lose a group match and not reach the final.

If we take a look at the Live Rankings, Carlos Alcaraz currently has 11,050 points, while Sinner is in the second spot with 10,000 points. This was the first time that Alcaraz has won his opener at the ATP Finals. So, we can surely expect some things from the Spaniard in this tournament. What do you say?

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The 22-year-old came into the clash knowing exactly what was at stake. One more win would all but guarantee him the top spot—a fitting reward after a season marked by resilience, learning, and flashes of the genius that once made him the youngest world number one in ATP history. It took Alcaraz 2 hours and 48 minutes to beat Fritz by 6(2)-7, 7-5, 6-3 in the second group stage match of the 2025 ATP Finals.

With this win, Carlos Alcaraz has now secured his 50th ATP Top 10 win in 73 matches. Since 1973, only Jimmy Connors (69) and Boris Becker (71) have claimed 50 career ATP Top 10 wins in fewer matches. But the most rewarding part of this win is probably him getting one step closer to his crowd. Speaking about whether he has this thing on his mind before his last group stage match, he said, “I try not to think about it, to be honest. Obviously, it’s gonna be a really big match for me. I will try not to let the nerves play a bad time for me in that match. I’ll try to control the emotions, to control myself. I’ll think about my goals in the match. I’ll try to think about feeling much better than today with the shots, with the serve, with everything. Obviously, it’s gonna be a big day. Right now I’m gonna enjoy this win and try to rest as much as I can to be ready for the match.”

Alcaraz was forced to dig deep by Fritz in this epic duel. An opening four games lasting just 30 minutes set the tone of the match perfectly. Both players exchanging breaks in lengthy service games. Fritz hit 14 aces in this match, while it was just 9 for the Spaniard. But in the latter stages of this epic duel, we saw the American struggling a bit, leaving many to question whether he’s 100% fit.

Further clarifying the doubts among his fans after the match, Taylor Fritz admitted, “I think once we get to the third set, I’m struggling pretty hard with my knee tendinitis. I have to play back-to-back days, then I’m playing such an explosive match. I feel like it gets a little bit tough to bend my knee on my serve once we get that late into the match. That is what it is. I can’t really do much about it.”

For Fritz, it will be a challenge to keep himself fit for the next match against Alex de Minaur, while for Alcaraz, his match against Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti will be a golden opportunity to secure the world number one crown. Can Carlos Alcaraz become just the 11th player to be the ATP Year-End No. 1 more than once? Well, the answer lies in the hands of Musetti to a certain extent. What did he say about the challenge against the Spaniard, though?

Can Lorenzo Musetti do a favor for his compatriot, Jannik Sinner, by securing a win against Carlos Alcaraz?

Carlos Alcaraz’s match against Taylor Fritz was one of those matches where every rally felt like a tug-of-war, each point a tiny victory in itself. So, when the final ball zipped past Fritz’s racket, Alcaraz let out a primal roar—not just of triumph, but of relief.

He said, “Well, it was pretty tight, the match. I think I was running more than him, struggling more than him. After the first set, I was a break up, the next game, I didn’t play well. The first set, I didn’t serve well, and he was playing really comfortably from the baseline with everything. I was really relieved after the win because of everything that I went through during the match physically. I didn’t feel the ball as well as I did in the first round, but really happy that I found a way to come back, to find weaknesses from him, and really happy that I got the win in the end.”

Coming off a tricky indoor season and facing an opponent who reached the final here last year, it wasn’t easy. But Carlitos proved once again why he’s regarded as one of the most complete players on the Tour.

While sharing his thoughts about this match, tennis legend Tim Henman said, “An amazing match, two of the best players in the world going head to head. Just throwing everything at it. From the word go, the quality, the intensity, the ball striking was just amazing—top five matches of this year, for sure.” Speaking about Fritz and how Alcaraz managed to seal the victory with incredible resilience, Henman added, “Every opportunity he had to pull the trigger, he just went for his shots, and Alcaraz was up against it for the vast majority of that match.”

Former British player Naomi Cavaday, who was commentating in that match, assessed Carlos Alcaraz’s performance, saying, “It was exceptional, it really, really was, because it just built and built for Alcaraz. Just got better and better. He was putting all the pieces together methodically, and that number was rising all the way to the end.”

The Turin crowd will surely rally behind Lorenzo Musetti in the next match, but as we all know, Alcaraz has made a habit of silencing stadiums across the world. So, as he steps into the court next, eyes burning with purpose, one thing is certain—the chase for greatness continues, one tight match at a time.

Speaking about the big challenge against the world number one, Musetti said, “The next one coming is against Carlos, so I know how difficult it is, especially in these conditions. I’ll try to enjoy and fight like I’ve done today.” He looks battle-ready, doesn’t he?

A straight-sets win against Carlos Alcaraz will keep his hopes alive for entering the semis, and guess what? A win against the Spaniard will also do wonders for Jannik Sinner’s chances of ending the year as the world number one. So, there is a lot at stake in this match. Who’s your pick in this epic duel?

The post Carlos Alcaraz Pushes Toward World No.1 Glory After Battling Past an Injured Taylor Fritz appeared first on EssentiallyTennis.

During the 2025 Hellenic Championship, when he was asked to share his thoughts about his retirement plans, he said, “Have I ever considered retiring? It’s crossed my mind more than once, that’s for sure. However, I refuse to talk about it. I think I have earned the right to play as much as I want and whenever I want… I understand people’s curiosity about ‘when,’ but for me, there’s no countdown in my mind.” But in a rare moment of openness, Djokovic has finally given fans a glimpse into his future.

Hours after securing the 101st title of his career by defeating Lorenzo Musetti by 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 in the final of the 2025 Hellenic Championships, Novak Djokovic pulled‌ his name from the ATP Finals, citing an injury issue. The 24-time Grand Slam champion has struggled with a greater number of physical issues in 2025 than in previous years. Djokovic suffered injuries at the AO, Wimbledon, and the US Open this year, and seeing these, there were murmurs about him nearing the end of his illustrious career. But recently, he made a very interesting statement. Djokovic said, “I want to retire at the Olympics in 2028 holding the Serbian flag.”

But having said that, the 38-year-old also added, “I don’t know; I mean, I really don’t know, because there are some things that are not entirely in my control. I’m trying to be as healthy as possible mentally and physically.” For a player who has redefined longevity, Djokovic’s declaration feels almost poetic. Although he won the gold medal in 2024, the Olympics has always held a special place in his heart—a stage where national pride meets personal ambition.

And to bid farewell while carrying the Serbian flag would be a fitting tribute to a career built on passion, resilience, and an undying love for his country. Fans can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that the sport’s greatest competitor isn’t leaving just yet. Three more years. Three more seasons to witness the genius, the fire, and the legacy of Novak Djokovic—one of the greatest athletes ever to step on a tennis court.

But this isn’t the first time we’ve seen him speak about the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Even in June this year, he said, “The only thing that I have in my head, which gives me motivation, is the Olympics of 2028 in Los Angeles.” But from where does he get so much motivation to keep going even at this age, though?

What inspires Novak Djokovic to keep going?

When the whispers began—about when Novak Djokovic would finally hang up his racket—they came not just from fans or pundits, but from tennis legends themselves. Everyone seemed to have an opinion on when his remarkable journey would end. For example, in September, tennis legend Rennae Stubbs predicted that Djokovic could retire at the AO. 

While the British sports broadcaster, David Law, claimed that Djokovic may retire at Wimbledon 2026. Seeing his recent willingness to take part in the 2028 Olympics, these two predictions might just have been ruled out. But what really keeps him going at this age?

In a previous interview, he stated, “Many people thought that after the Olympics, after winning the gold medal, I would end my career. However, I don’t play tennis just for the achievements. Obviously, the achievements are a big part of my motivation, but I also play tennis because I really enjoy the competition. I enjoy the process and what tennis brings to me personally, to my family, but also what I bring to tennis, as long as I remain an active professional player.” He claimed that he enjoys contributing to the prosperity, popularity, and development of the sport.

Having such a hunger for success at 38 is quite incredible. Who has been his biggest inspiration in this journey? In October, during an interview at Joy Forum in Riyadh, Novak Djokovic said, “Longevity is one of my biggest motivations. I really want to see how far I can go. If you see across all the global sports, LeBron James he’s still going strong; he’s 40, Cristiano Ronaldo and Tom Brady played till he was 40-something years old. I mean, it’s unbelievable. They’re inspiring me as well. So I want to keep going, and that’s one of the motivations I have.”

So, while others may speculate about when the curtain will fall, it seems Djokovic is still savoring the act itself. For now, he’s not counting years—he’s counting moments. And as long as that joy remains, tennis fans around the world can rest assured: Novak Djokovic isn’t done writing his story just yet.

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