Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have now split the last eight Major titles between them, forming a duopoly that, with each passing year, is beginning to look eerily similar to the Big Three tennis witnessed not long ago. Their level of dominance has been so overwhelming that they have not only swept the Majors but also won every tournament in 2025 in which both entered the draw.
Now, at the Australian Open, both players are chasing different kinds of history.
Rod Laver Explains Who Holds the Edge
Sinner is aiming to become just the second men’s player in the Open Era to complete a three-peat at Melbourne Park, following in the footsteps of Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz, meanwhile, is seeking to become the youngest man in the Open Era to complete the Career Grand Slam with a triumph at Rod Laver Arena.
According to the tennis legend after whom the court is named, that hunger may prove decisive. Speaking in an interview ahead of the Australian Open, the 11-time Major champion Rod Laver said:
“It’s extremely difficult to predict, which is a great situation for tennis to be in. Of course, Sinner and Alcaraz are top of the list as their rivalry grows. Sinner continues to strengthen his game, and is the two-time defending champion, but if the conditions are hot, I’d say Carlos has an edge, and his desire to win is going to be higher than ever because he hasn’t won it before.”
Such a belief from the only man in history to complete the calendar Grand Slam in the Open Era could serve as powerful motivation for Alcaraz, as he resumes his pursuit of what would be a truly historic achievement.
But with both players entering Melbourne as the players to beat, the question remains: who do you think will lift the trophy at this year’s Australian Open?
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey – USA TODAY Sports
