The rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz has become of the most legendary rivalries in the world of tennis. While Sinner was an easy winner before he had to serve a three-month doping ban, ever since he came back, it seems like he has lost that spark. With Alcaraz holding a notable edge in their head-to-head record, which is 8-4, Sinner now must level up his game to avoid losing in close calls.
Recently, Rafael Nadal’s former coach, Toni Nadal, shared his expert opinion on what Jannik Sinner must do to overcome Alcaraz, who himself is often compared with Rafa.
Carlos Alcaraz Leading The Charge
Carlos Alcaraz has been leading the ATP now, as he has won the last three back-to-back tournaments, starting from the Italian Open, then the French Open, and finally, the Queens Club tennis. Alcaraz holds a notable advantage of 8-4 in their head-to-head records as of June 2025. Both rising stars will now meet at the next Grand Slam, Wimbledon, for a thrilling encounter as Alcaraz chases his third consecutive Wimbledon crown.
Rafael Nadal’s Former Coach Shares What Jannik Sinner Must Do
Toni Nadal, who has witnessed the evolution of both players up close, emphasised two critical areas where Jannik Sinner must excel to beat Alcaraz.
Talking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Nadal said, “I speak as an outside observer, [Jannik] Sinner’s coaches know very well what needs to be worked on. He has a great serve, very powerful forehand and backhand, and he is very solid. He could be more precise in the drop shots, and sometimes he is a bit in a hurry. Carlos [Alcaraz], on the other hand, is more creative. Everyone can do better; even [Roger] Federer perfected his backhand. Jannik will continue to add small details to evolve”
Further explaining why Alcaraz has the edge over Jannik Sinner, he said, “I think the Spaniard is mentally a little superior in the decisive moments, while the Italian is better at imposing a very high pace without making mistakes. But when it’s the key moment, between the two of them, maybe Carlos is a little superior.”
“Sometimes it’s just that your game and that of your rival don’t combine well. Carlos dominates the precedents with Sinner, but the truth is that if the Italian had had a little more luck, he would have two more victories and Carlos two more defeats. All it takes is one ball in or out, and chaos breaks out: everyone becomes an expert, the press looks for exceptional explanations. Instead, you have to resign yourself: sport is a simple thing,” he added
Jannik Sinner’s Flashes Of Potential
Although Alcaraz leads the rivalry, Sinner is also not far behind. He has shown flashes of potential that he can win on big stages, like the victory in Riyadh. Their matches often end up in close calls, showcasing that he’s capable of doing just as good if he manages to push out a little harder.
Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz Joins An Elite Group With Historic Queens Club Win
