Alcaraz Sets Up Final Against Sinner in Rome: "I Only Think About the Rivalry"
This Sunday, the crowd in Rome will witness a dream final between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. The two leaders of the new generation will battle for the title in the Italian capital.
In his comeback tournament after a three-month break, the world No. 1 has already made an impression, particularly in the quarterfinals where he only conceded one game to the Madrid champion, Casper Ruud.
Before stepping onto the court this Sunday afternoon, Alcaraz—who has won his last three matches against the Italian—hopes to extend his streak and end Sinner’s run of 26 consecutive victories. In the meantime, he shared his thoughts on this highly anticipated clash.
"At the end of the day, everyone only thinks about themselves. Jannik (Sinner) and I didn’t speak during his break. This isn’t the time to be friends; I only think about the rivalry. We’re both part of the ATP Tour, we have a normal relationship, but we’re not that close.
I can’t be friends behind the scenes with someone I want to beat. We’re rivals, but I’m still happy he’s back on the court and doing well.
I understand he might be a little offended that some didn’t reach out to him during his absence from the tour, but these things happen," the Spaniard told Tribuna.