SportJournal.pictures, 19/05/2025
Carlos Alcaraz is, arguably, the only player on tour who truly welcomed Jannik Sinner’s return with a genuine smile. Not out of politeness. Not even empathy. But out of necessity.
During the three-month absence of his favorite “enemy,” Carlitos claimed titles in Rotterdam and Monte Carlo. Yet he also looked adrift, losing matches to Jiri Lehecka, Jack Draper and – most unexpectedly – 34-year-old David Goffin, possibly carrying a cane in his tennis bag.
The paradox is beautiful: a champion needs a worthy rival to remember he is one. Alcaraz doesn’t thrive on rhythm – he thrives on inspiration. He approaches tennis like a Renaissance artist facing a marble block, waiting for the shape that awakens the Michelangelo within.
And right now, Sinner is that perfect block. His most worthy adversary. His mirror.
The French Open begins in three weeks. And if Alcaraz ends up making history in Paris, it won’t be despite Sinner. It will be thanks to him.
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