Carlos Alcaraz recently reflected on the warmth and enthusiasm he receives from Italian fans, even as he competes against their local hero, Jannik Sinner. The four-time Grand Slam champion arrived in Turin to participate in the ATP Finals for the second time, eager to surpass his 2023 performance, where he reached the semifinals before falling to Novak Djokovic. Djokovic ultimately clinched the title by defeating Sinner in an electrifying final, leaving Alcaraz hungry for redemption this year.
Now entering the tournament as the third seed, Alcaraz is fully aware of the challenge that lies ahead in the prestigious year-end competition featuring the season’s top eight players. The field, however, will be missing one significant name: Djokovic, who withdrew shortly before the event despite qualifying. “I would really like to lift this prestigious trophy one day,” Alcaraz shared. “It’s only the second time I play in Turin, and for me, playing with the best seven players in the world really means a lot. Being here is a goal that I have been chasing since the beginning of the season.”
The young Spaniard, known for his charisma and electrifying style on court, remains somewhat puzzled—but deeply appreciative—of the affection shown by Italian fans, despite his fierce rivalry with Sinner. “I honestly don’t know why so many Italian fans continue to love me so much despite my rivalry with Jannik, but I think it’s because I always try to entertain people when I go on court,” said the world No. 3. “Maybe it’s because of my personality, or maybe it’s just my tennis, but it’s true that in Italy I feel the fans’ passion. Italians love sports a lot, not just tennis.”
Amid the buzz surrounding the ATP Finals, Alcaraz also touched upon the emotional topic of his Davis Cup duties and the impending retirement of tennis legend Rafael Nadal. “I don’t want to think about Davis Cup at the moment, also because it’s difficult for me to accept Rafa Nadal’s retirement,” Alcaraz admitted. “I’m focused on the ATP Finals, and I don’t know what will happen in Malaga. I’ll think about it when the time comes and we’ll see how it goes.”
On the other side of this compelling narrative, Jannik Sinner enters the ATP Finals for the second time in his career, buoyed by the support of a nation that reveres him. Sinner, who has rapidly ascended the ranks to become one of the sport’s premier players, expressed his pride and determination heading into the competition. “It’s a special tournament for us; we make a lot of sacrifices to be here,” said Sinner. “And when you get here, you have to beat the best in the world right from the group stage. I think it will be a great show for the spectators too.”
The world No. 1 did not shy away from acknowledging the contributions of his fellow Italian players to the country’s growing tennis prominence. Sinner’s leadership and talent were instrumental in guiding Italy to a historic Davis Cup victory a year ago, marking the nation’s first title in 47 years. “Many things have changed in 12 months, but my approach to matches hasn’t. Since we won the Davis Cup last year, tennis in Italy has grown,” Sinner said, emphasizing the collaborative effort driving Italian tennis to new heights.
“I have achieved great results, but we mustn’t forget what Fognini and Berrettini did before, and the great seasons of Musetti, Cobolli, and Arnaldi,” Sinner added, highlighting the depth of talent in Italian tennis. “The goal is always to make this sport grow, which is very beautiful. It’s difficult to talk about a rivalry with Alcaraz when we are so young; we’ve each won two Slams this year, but we still have a lot ahead of us. We hope it will be a great tournament for the crowd, but it’s still too early to talk about a rivalry.”
The Alcaraz-Sinner dynamic has undoubtedly captured the imagination of tennis fans worldwide. While their head-to-head battles on the court have already become memorable, both players remain grounded, acknowledging their individual journeys and the shared aspiration to elevate the sport. As they prepare to face off against the world’s best in Turin, the stakes are high, but the respect between these two rising stars is even higher.
For Alcaraz, the quest for the ATP Finals title is another chapter in his rapid ascent, fueled by talent, determination, and the support of fans around the world—including those in Italy, who have embraced him with open arms. For Sinner, the tournament offers a chance to shine on home soil and further solidify his legacy. The passion, skill, and youthful energy both players bring to the court make this year’s ATP Finals an unmissable spectacle for tennis enthusiasts, promising thrilling rallies, heart-stopping moments, and perhaps, the beginning of a legendary rivalry that will define the sport for years to come.