Spanish tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz produced a commanding performance to defeat world number one Jannik Sinner 7-6(5), 6-1 in the Italian Open final, ending the Italian’s 26-match unbeaten streak.
Sinner, who was playing his first tournament after serving a three-month doping ban, came into the match hoping to make history as the first Italian man to win the Rome title since Adriano Panatta in 1976.
Despite holding two set points in the opening set, he failed to convert them — an opportunity that Alcaraz quickly capitalized on.
After clinching a tense first-set tiebreak, Alcaraz completely outclassed Sinner in the second set, displaying stunning athleticism and precision. He wrapped up the match with a crisp cross-court volley, securing his maiden Rome title and his 15th career ATP singles title overall.
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“This is really special,” said the 22-year-old Alcaraz. “To win in Rome for the first time means a lot. Hopefully, it’s just the beginning here. But I also want to say congrats to Jannik — coming back after everything and reaching the final is incredible.”
Sinner was gracious in defeat, acknowledging his tough road back: “The past few months weren’t easy, but I’m proud to have made it this far. Carlos was the better player today.”
The final was a rematch of the China Open clash in October 2024, which also saw Alcaraz emerge victorious. With this win, he has now beaten Sinner in four consecutive meetings, solidifying his position as one of the dominant forces heading into the French Open.
BBC
