Carlos Alcaraz staged one of the greatest comebacks in French Open history, overturning a two-set deficit to defeat world number one Jannik Sinner in a breathtaking five-set thriller at Roland Garros today – Sinner 6-4 7-6 (7-4) 4-6 6-7 (3-7) 6-7 (2-10) Alcaraz.
The defending champion appeared to be heading for a straight-sets defeat as Sinner dominated the opening two sets with clinical precision. However, the 22-year-old Spaniard summoned remarkable resilience to claw his way back into the match, ultimately prevailing in a dramatic deciding set to claim his second consecutive French Open title and fifth Grand Slam crown.
Sinner’s Early Dominance
The Italian started the match in devastating form, showcasing the tennis that has established him as the world’s top-ranked player. Sinner’s aggressive baseline game and precise shot-making put Alcaraz under immediate pressure, with the defending champion struggling to find his rhythm on the Philippe-Chatrier Court.
The opening two sets belonged entirely to Sinner, who capitalised on uncharacteristic errors from Alcaraz while maintaining his high level of play. The 23-year-old Italian appeared to be cruising toward his maiden French Open title as he took command of the final.
The Great Turnaround
Facing the prospect of a straight-sets defeat, Alcaraz displayed the mental fortitude that has defined his young career. The Spaniard began to find his range in the third set, rediscovering the explosive groundstrokes and court coverage that have made him one of tennis’s most dynamic players.
As Alcaraz’s level rose, the momentum of the match shifted dramatically. The crowd at Roland Garros sensed the possibility of an extraordinary comeback, their support growing louder with each game Alcaraz won. He saved three championship points in the fourth set, ultimately winning the fourth set and pushing the game to a decider set.
Fifth Set Drama
The deciding set proved to be a masterclass in pressure tennis, with both players raising their level when it mattered most. In a match that had already provided countless memorable moments, the fifth set delivered the ultimate climax.
With the Philippe-Chatrier Court at fever pitch, both players drew strength from their inner reserve and was 6-6 apiece that ended on a tiebreak – first to get to 10 points.
Historic Achievement
The victory makes Alcaraz the youngest player to successfully defend the French Open title in the modern era, cementing his status as one of tennis’s brightest stars. For Sinner, this loss broke his 20-match winning streak. Despite the heartbreaking defeat, this final represents a significant milestone in what promises to be a stellar career.
Carlos Alcaraz is the third player in the Open era to win a men’s singles Grand Slam final after saving match points, following Gaston Gaudio (Roland Garros 2004) and Novak Djokovic (Wimbledon 2019).
Final Thoughts
“First of all, congratulations, Carlos. It was an amazing performance from you again. It was an amazing battle. Congratulations to you and your team, you did an amazing job. I’m very happy for you. You deserve it, so congratulations,” Jannik said during the award ceremony.
“It is easier to play than to talk right now. Thank you so much to my team for helping me put myself in this position. We tried our best today. We gave everything we had. Some time ago, we would have loved to be here, so it’s still been an amazing tournament.
“Even though it is very difficult right now, it is okay. It is a big privilege for me to be here and to play here. For me, Paris is a really special place. I have achieved many great things here. I’m still happy with this one. It is an amazing trophy.
“I won’t sleep very well tonight, but it is okay.”
“Thank you so much to the organisers of everything for making this tournament such a special event. You make us feel at home, and you make life easier for all of us, so thank you so much.”
“Obviously, the support has been amazing throughout the whole couple of weeks. You are amazing, so thank you again.
“I will see you guys again next year. Thank you.”
Carlos began with a message to Jannik Sinner.
“It is amazing the level you have, congratulations for an amazing tournament to you and your team.”
“I know the hard work you put in. I know how hard you are chasing every tournament. I am sure you will be champion many, many times and it is a privilege to share the court with you and making history with you.
“I’m just really happy to be able to make history with you in this tournament, in other tournaments, you are a huge inspiration for everyone and myself. Good luck and all the best for what is coming,” Alcaraz said.
Eight-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi presented Carlos Alcaraz with his trophy. Agassi won the French Open in 1999.
The match will be remembered as one of the greatest finals in French Open history. It is the second-longest match in Roland Garros history, lasting five hours, 25 minutes.
Follow the AkweyaTV channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va7m7dvJuyA7h5XMc22i
