Carlos Alcaraz reaffirmed his dominance on the biggest stage by defeating Jannik Sinner in the U.S. Open final on Sunday, securing his sixth Grand Slam title and returning to the top of the ATP rankings.
The 22-year-old Spaniard overcame his long-time rival 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 in a match that lasted two hours and 42 minutes under the roof of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The victory gave Alcaraz a 10-5 lead in their head-to-head record, a 6-4 edge in major trophies, and his second title in New York.
This was the third straight major final of the season between the two rising stars — a first in men’s tennis.
Alcaraz had previously beaten Sinner in a grueling five-set battle at Roland-Garros, while the Italian claimed the Wimbledon crown.
“I feel like I’ve been seeing him more than my family,” Alcaraz joked during the trophy ceremony, praising the rivalry that has defined the 2024 season.
Sinner, 24, admitted that his opponent “handled the situation better” and was able to raise his level when it mattered most.
The win was set against a dramatic backdrop — play began after a delay caused by heightened security for former U.S. President Donald Trump’s presence in the stands.
But once underway, Alcaraz took immediate control, breaking Sinner’s serve five times and hitting 42 winners compared to his rival’s 21.
His coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, called the performance “perfect.”
Alcaraz’s aggressive play, particularly with his forehand, left little room for Sinner, who came into the final on a 27-match winning streak on hard courts at Grand Slam events.
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Despite flashes of brilliance, the Italian could not sustain pressure against a relentless opponent.
Between them, Alcaraz and Sinner have now claimed eight of the last 11 majors, with Novak Djokovic picking up the rest.
Their budding rivalry has given men’s tennis a new era of marquee battles, with fans already anticipating the next installment.
For Alcaraz, Sunday’s victory was not just about another trophy — it was proof that his preparation and adjustments since Wimbledon had paid off.
“This is the best tournament I’ve ever played so far,” he said with a smile, holding the U.S. Open trophy aloft.
