Carlos Alcaraz has ended Jannik Sinner’s run of 27 consecutive hardcourt wins at Grand Slam events to win the US Open and ensure his return to world No.1.
The Spaniard powered his way to a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 triumph to become the second-youngest player in the Open Era to win a sixth major title. He joins Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Mats Wilander as the only men to have won multiple Grand Slam titles on three different surfaces.
Alcaraz, who has now won seven out of his last eight matches against Sinner, utilized his speed and aggression to pull off his latest victory in two hours and 42 minutes. Producing 42 winners against 24 unforced errors and winning 83% of his first service points. As a result of his latest achievement, he will return to the top of the ATP standings on Monday for the first time in two years with a 760-point lead.
“To my team and family: I’m lucky to have you,” Alcaraz said during the trophy ceremony.
“You give so much hard work to make me better. I’m really proud of the people I have around me. Thank you so much. This achievement is thanks to you. I love you all.“
Despite their young age, 22-year-old Alcaraz and 24-year-old Sinner have already created history in their six-year rivalry. Their latest showdown at the US Open marked the first time in the Open Era that two players have played against each other in the final of three major events within the same year. Between them, they have won the last eight Grand Slam titles.
“Jannik, it is unbelievable what you have done this season,” the new champion commented.
“You’ve shown a great level at every tournament. I see you more than my family and it’s great to share the court and the locker room with you. You improve every day working with your team, so congratulations to you. It was a great performance this whole tournament.”
Proceedings took place later than scheduled due to a massive security operation in place for the arrival of President Donald Trump, who was there as a guest of the Swiss brand Rolex. Less than an hour before the original start time, thousands of fans were waiting outside the entrance gates.
Alcaraz quickly settled into the final, which enabled him to dominate the opening set, winning 31 out of the 49 points played. He produced an array of impressive shots and bullied his rival around the court with some aggressive hitting. An Alcaraz slice to the Sinner backhand forced the Italian to return the ball into the net as he broke in the first game. Continuing to capitalize on a series of mistakes from the top seed, he sealed a double break six games later before closing it out with a love service game.
It wasn’t until 57 minutes into the match that Sinner managed to get some momentum. Encouraging the New York crowd to get behind him, he fired a blistering forehand passing shot to break Alcaraz for the first time midway through the second frame. The notable change was achieved by a tactic of piling more pressure onto his backhand. Turning the tide, Sinner held his nerve to draw level. Ending Alcaraz’s bid to become the first man in history to win the US Open title without dropping a set.
However, Sinner’s comeback vanished in dramatic fashion with an Alcaraz hammering in the third set, which was one of the most one-sided they have ever played against each other. In fact, it is the first time this season Sinner has failed to win multiple games in a set at a Grand Slam event.
Closing in on the title, Alcaraz broke once more midway through the fourth frame before putting himself in a position to serve the match out. He encountered a minor blip after seeing two championship points come and go, one of which was due to an electric forehand winner from Sinner. However, it was third time lucky for Alcaraz, who sealed it with a 131 mph serve out wide.
“To my team, thank you for supporting me and understanding me,” runner-up Sinner said after the match.
“It has been an incredible season with a lot of big stages and matches. I’m super happy to share this moment with you and my family and all the people I love.
“I tried my best today. I couldn’t do more.”
Alcaraz exits the US Open with $5M in prize money. He is the youngest man in the Open Era to have beaten a reigning champion in a major final on multiple occasions.
“This is super special for me. The three weeks I spent here are a privilege. I feel at home and feel the energy and love here.” He concluded.
