Carlos Alcaraz shows his class with Jannik Sinner gesture in Italian Open locker room
Carlos Alcaraz claimed his first Italian Open title on Sunday with a straight-sets victory over Jannik Sinner, but the world No. 2 was quick to show his respect
Carlos Alcaraz demonstrated not just his skill but also sportsmanship after triumphing over Jannik Sinner in the Italian Open final on Sunday. In what was their most significant clash to date, Alcaraz emerged victorious in a Masters 1000 final, saving set points in the first set and dominating the second for a 7-6(5) 6-1 win.
Securing the Rome trophy for the first time, Alcaraz has now clinched all major clay court titles. Despite his success, the world No.2 showed humility by quietly reminding his team to be considerate towards Sinner's camp, mindful that they might overhear any celebrations.
After withdrawing from the Madrid Open due to thigh injuries, Alcaraz made an impressive comeback to claim his maiden Italian Open title. The 22 year old faced off against Sinner, his foremost adversary, in the final, marking his seventh victory and fourth consecutive win against the Italian.
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Sinner, returning from a three-month suspension, couldn't withstand Alcaraz's prowess as the world No. 1's performance dipped in the second set, leaving him unable to secure the championship on home soil.
Alcaraz was acutely aware of how challenging the defeat was for Sinner and remained sensitive to his opponent's emotions post-match.
In the locker room, while celebrating with the trophy, Alcaraz's physical trainer began a loud "champion" chant, which the considerate world No. 2 quickly hushed.
Following his Italian Open win, Alcaraz heaped praise on Sinner during his victory speech. "I have to congratulate you because it's amazing what you have done with your team," he said.
"I'm not gonna get tired of saying how amazing a person, an athlete you are. Working really hard every day to make this possible, making your people proud."
In the post-match press conference, Alcaraz continued to laud Sinner, saying: "If I don't play at my best, 10 out of 10, it's going to be impossible to beat him.
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"That's why I'm more focused when I'm playing against him, or I feel a little bit different when I'm going to face him than other players.
"I think obviously the rest of the players are the same when they are facing Jannik. It's kind of different feeling. He has that aura. When you're seeing him at the other side of the net, it's kind of different."
