Carlos Alcaraz isn’t backing down. Just weeks after his heartbreaking four-set defeat to Jannik Sinner in the 2025 Wimbledon final, the Spanish sensation has made it clear: he’s coming for the No. 1 spot again—and he’s aiming to be at peak form for the US Open.
In a candid interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Alcaraz laid out his roadmap for the remainder of the season, sending an unmistakable message to his rival and current world No. 1, Sinner.
“Right now my first goal is to regain the first position in the ranking,” Alcaraz said. “Now I’m preparing for the American tournaments, in order to get in top shape for the US Open.”
Carlos Alcaraz vs Jannik Sinner: A rivalry redefining modern tennis
The Alcaraz-Sinner rivalry has quickly become the heartbeat of men’s tennis. Their last two Grand Slam clashes—Carlos Alcaraz’s legendary five-set win in the French Open final and Jannik Sinner’s calculated revenge at Wimbledon—have not only showcased the sport’s future but also captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
“It’s a great thing for our sport, because it entices people to watch tennis and play it,” Alcaraz said. “The more games we play against, the more people we will involve in this sport.”
Their rivalry isn’t just about trophies and rankings—it’s built on mutual respect. Alcaraz describes Sinner as a "great fighter" who doesn’t let pressure or point defense affect his mindset, but that’s exactly the kind of challenge that motivates the Spaniard.
“I know that Sinner doesn’t care if he has a lot of points to defend, he is a great fighter who always plays to win… but I’m ready for the challenge.”
Lessons from defeat, fuel for the future
Carlos Alcaraz has taken a brief step back from competition, withdrawing from the Canadian Masters to reset after a grueling few months. But unlike last year—when his performance dipped following the Olympics—he believes he’s mentally sharper, more self-aware, and more focused on what matters.
“Last year, after the Olympics, I struggled to express myself and I didn’t achieve great results… So, from now on, I won’t have many points to defend until the end of the season. I will give my best in the next tournaments to win as much loot as possible.”
Alcaraz also revealed that he’s been working closely with a mental coach for the past five years, a relationship he credits for helping him deal with stress, criticism, and internal pressure.
“It’s all in the head… every small step counts and you can learn even from defeats. It is not necessary to be phenomenal every day; the important thing is to be constant and strive to improve. Always.”
On to Cincinnati, then new york
With his sights now set on the American hardcourt swing, Carlos Alcaraz will return to action at the Cincinnati Masters. His goal is clear—rebuild his momentum and arrive in New York as the man to beat.
The warning shot has been fired. Carlos Alcaraz is regrouped, recharged, and relentlessly eyeing his return to the summit of men’s tennis.