Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz has joked he sees Italian rival Jannik Sinner “more than his family” following his US Open triumph in New York on Monday morning AEST.
The 22-year-old secured his sixth grand slam title by defeating No. 1 seed Sinner 6-2 3-6 6-1 6-4 in the US Open men’s singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium. It was his second US Open triumph, while he also reclaimed the No.1 spot on the ATP rankings for the first time since September 2023.
“This tournament is super special for me,” Alcaraz said during the post-match presentation.
“It is incredible, the three weeks that I spend here, it’s just a privilege to be part of these tournaments.
“I just feel at home, feel the energy, feel the love, just trying to play my best for you guys. You made everything easy, so thank you very much.”
Watch the biggest Aussie sports & the best from overseas LIVE on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1 >
Alcaraz and Sinner have faced off in three grand slam finals this year, with Alcaraz winning at Roland Garros in June and Sinner conquering Wimbledon in July. The Italian star also won February’s Australian Open.
And the duo will no doubt come head-to-head a lot more in the future.
“I’m seeing you more than my family,” Alcaraz jested while congratulating Sinner on his New York campaign.
“It’s unbelievable what you’ve been doing during the whole season, a great level during every tournament you’re playing.
“It’s great to share the court, share the locker room, to share everything with you. Watching you improve every day, working really hard with your team, really great people around you.
“So just congratulations for everything you’re doing, and a great performance during the whole week.”
Alcaraz also thanked his team and family, with his brother, uncle and father watching from the stands.
“I’m really lucky to have you guys on, to be honest,” he continued.
“The hard work you’re making, just to make me even better, not only in the professional part, but the personal part as well.
“I’m just really proud about the people I have around. Thank you very much.
“Every achievement that I’m having is because of you, it’s thanks to you.”
Reigning US Open champion Sinner had won 27 consecutive matches at hard-court grand slams before this weekend’s final.
The most recent person to retain their US Open men’s singles crown since Roger Federer, who won five in a row from 2004 to 2008.
“I tried my best today. I couldn’t do more,” Sinner confessed.