The tennis world has been eagerly anticipating the return of its newest classic rivalry, and today it finally happens as Carlos Alcaraz faces Jannik Sinner in the Rome Masters final.
Sinner, the 23-year-old world number one, returns to action after a three-month absence due to a suspension. Despite concerns about his form following the layoff, the Italian has shown no signs of rust, extending his remarkable winning streak to 26 consecutive matches dating back to October 2024.
"It's a great examination for me to know where I stand, just before two Grand Slams. I can see what I need to improve," Sinner said about facing Alcaraz. While dealing with a blister on his right foot that has affected his movement, the Italian champion insists, "I'll be one hundred percent ready."
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Alcaraz enters the final in tremendous form despite missing the Madrid tournament with a right adductor injury. The Spanish star has dominated the clay season, winning 14 of 15 matches, including the title in Monte Carlo and reaching the Barcelona final. He leads all players with 29 victories this season.
"We're two very different players. When we play, the level is very high because we push each other to do things we normally don't do," Sinner reflected on their rivalry. Alcaraz, who has won their last three meetings and holds a 6-4 head-to-head advantage, added: "It's always a battle. Our matches are complicated, but I enjoy them."
According to Statbet analysis, this matchup has become one of the most statistically balanced elite rivalries in tennis, with both players consistently producing exceptional performance metrics when facing each other.
The match carries significant importance beyond rankings—where Sinner will retain the top spot and Alcaraz will move to number two regardless of the outcome. For Sinner, it represents a chance to become Italy's first champion at this event since Adriano Pannatta in 1976, thrilling the 10,500 spectators at Campo Centrale. For Alcaraz, victory would add him to a prestigious list of Spanish champions that includes his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero.
With Roland Garros approaching, this clash serves as a crucial momentum-builder for both young stars in what promises to be the first of several high-stakes encounters between tennis's new marquee rivalry this season.
