When the French Open started, there was doubt whether Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner could make it to the semifinal stage. But here they are, battling for a chance in French Open glory. The last time these two played in a Grand Slam, it was an instant classic at the US Open 2022. There were some great points in that match and on clay, there should be even more such rallies.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Jannik Sinner: French Open Semifinal Preview
There’s a lot at stake in this match. Sinner is undefeated in Grand Slams this season, has been the best player, and will become the new World No.1 on Monday. Both are playing to reach their first French Open final and whoever wins this will be a favorite to go all the way and lift the trophy.
Both players have played excellent tennis this tournament and lost only one set en route. The head-to-head is balanced with four wins each in eight matches. Alcaraz is going to need to stay fit for the entire match–unlike last year, when he was having cramps against Novak Djokovic in the semifinal.
Alcaraz has the advantage in his movement on clay, his forehand, and his net game, both on defense and the attack. Sinner has the advantage in the serve, the return of serve, and the backhand. Each player must take his strengths to the limit and do his best to neutralize the opponent’s strengths.
Sinner performs best when the opponent plays to his strengths, power hitting side to side with minimal variety. But Alcaraz knows he needs to mix things up, as he did in Indian Wells this year, such as hitting high loopy balls to Sinner’s forehand without pace and playing an all-court game in which he outperforms Sinner.
These are the two most exciting and promising players since the “Big 3” that emerged so far and are going to shape the future of tennis. They always have amazing clashes, and regardless of the outcome of this match, the fans will be entertained to the maximum.
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
