Carlos Alcaraz is set for another blockbuster showdown with Jannik Sinner at the 2025 ATP Finals, but this time, the Spaniard knows he will be stepping into an atmosphere unlike any other. After his dominant straight-sets semifinal win over Felix Auger-Aliassime, Alcaraz addressed what he anticipates from the Italian crowd—and how he plans to handle the electric, partisan environment awaiting him inside Turin’s Pala Alpitour.
Carlos Alcaraz acknowledges Partisan Italian support for Jannik Sinner
Throughout the tournament, Italian fans have shown unwavering support for their home star, Sinner. Earlier in the week, Alcaraz was even met with boos when flashed on the big screen, signaling the challenge that awaits him in the final.
Speaking after his win over Auger-Aliassime, Alcaraz made it clear that he knows exactly what he’s walking into.
“I think the whole stadium is going to be supporting him, I’ve got to be prepared for that,” he said when asked about the expected atmosphere.
He added that even a handful of supporters in the crowd would make a difference for him.
“I just hope, three or four people in the crowd are cheering for me… hopefully I’m going to hear them more than the crowd.”
Despite expecting an overwhelmingly pro-Jannik Sinner environment, Carlos Alcaraz remains unfazed. Instead, he views the challenge as part of the competitive thrill of facing his greatest rival on one of the biggest stages of the season.
Why facing Sinner brings out the best in Alcaraz
This ATP Finals showdown will mark the sixth major final between Alcaraz and Sinner this season, a rivalry that has defined the 2025 tour. Their contrasting styles and razor-tight matches have elevated both players, and Alcaraz emphasized how Sinner pushes him to raise his game.
“Thanks to him, I try to approach the match in a different way, more focused. I know that I have to play my plan A if I want to beat him, if I want to win the tournament,” he said.
Carlos Alcaraz praised Jannik Sinner’s consistency and high-level performances, acknowledging that their rivalry continues to push the limits of modern tennis.
“I think we are both going to raise our level to the top, which is going to be great for us, great for the crowd.”
Confidence running high after semifinal win
Fresh off a commanding 6-2, 6-4 victory against Auger-Aliassime, Alcaraz enters the final in peak form. He reflected on the confidence he felt throughout the match, describing a sense of total control.
“I felt like I could do everything on court… everything was going to be in,” he said.
That level of confidence could prove pivotal as he prepares for the intense atmosphere and world-class opponent that await him. Carlos Alcaraz knows that replicating his semifinal performance will be essential if he hopes to claim the title in his 16th career meeting with the Italian star.