For Jannik Sinner, a lot was at stake in the summit clash of the US Open earlier this month. However, after a smooth run throughout the tournament, Carlos Alcaraz not only dethroned the Italian from the no.1 spot but also snatched the US Open crown. “I was very predictable on court today. He changed up the game.” Sinner’s confession was enough to tell the summary of how the 2-hour-42-minute final transpired inside a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium. And now, looking at the recent result between the two, Rick Macci gives his honest take.
After the finals at Flushing Meadows, Sinner stated, “Now it’s gonna be on me if I want to make changes or not. We’re definitely gonna work on that.” However, as per Macci, making too many changes might lead Sinner to lose his natural game. The 70-year-old stated, “Players because of Carlos feel an urgency to add to there game. This is sports in general to follow the leader adapt/ catch up.” He then quickly issued a reminder to Sinner. “Always remember your bread and butter and your identity because when you tweak to much you might lose your magical mental touch. @janniksin”
This post comes just days after Macci shared his thoughts on Sinner’s potential. The 24-year-old may have witnessed defeat in New York, but the iconic coach believes the Italian is on the path to long term success. “Sinner will sprinkle in a few serve and volleys more chips and drops. But at the end of the day the Italian Flamethrower is a different animal because of his Non Stop Pops.”
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While their initial face-off in a slam final (in Paris) ran for 5 hours and 29 minutes, Alcaraz didn’t give any chance to Sinner this time. In fact, he wrapped up the matter sooner than later. In one word, the “Murcian Maverick” was unplayable – even for a near-perfect, unbeatable Italian “machine”.
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But it seems like Macci’s take on his post-US Open confession might be right. How? Even Sinner’s rival believes that he was phenomenal – let alone being predictable.
Carlos Alcaraz reacts to Jannik Sinner’s US Open admission
The US Open final marked the 15th career meeting between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in an ATP event. Improving his H2H record, the Spaniard stretched it to 10-5 with a score line of 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4. Alcaraz was in a solid form from the get-go, and as a result, Sinner’s troubles started early. The Italian faced his first break point just four minutes into the final. Not to be outdone, Sinner finished strong in the second set. But his momentum was short-lived after Alcaraz defeated him in 3rd and 4th sets, to clinch the US Open triumph.
Following his win, Alcaraz started his 37th week at No.1 spot for the first time since September 2023. Of course, the feeling was special after besting his arch rival. But when asked to comment on Sinner’s urge to change his ‘predictable’ approach, Alcaraz simply disagreed.
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In fact, he lauded the former No.1 saying, “I wouldn’t say that I read his game or that it was predictable. I watch a lot of his matches because I enjoy watching him play. I think what he does is incredible.” Per the current World No.1, “it’s a matter of improvements. You talk with your team and make some adjustments to your game. I think everything will be different the next time we face each other.”
Moving forward, it will be intriguing to watch whether Sinner adjusts his style to beat Carlos Alcaraz. Or will he stick to what he’s been doing so far? Do you think the Italian will make a strong comeback the next time he faces his tour rival?