The Heated Rivalry of tennis

The Australian Open, also known as the Happy Slam, has kicked off a season that is likely to be defined by another captivating battle for world No. 1, as tennis’s current rivalry intensifies between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

Last season was marked by their match at the French Open. Some have compared it to the 2008 Wimbledon final between a pair very similar to this budding rivalry, in “Fedal”, (Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.) The French Open of last year was similarly a 5 set tie break match, with multiple championship points. In both cases, the Spaniard won. The last eight Grand Slam titles have been won by the new pair, setting up expectations for another ‘Sincaraz’ final. Sinner, world number 2, is aiming for a third consecutive Australian Open title, as well as dominating recent hard-court majors. Alcaraz, world number 1, is seeking to complete a career Grand Slam. The prospect of a three-peat, or of one player becoming the first of the pair to complete a career Grand Slam, has elevated the tournament beyond the intensity the Australian Open is typically known for.

My prediction? I believe this is Sinner’s tournament to lose, has the better draw, and is better prepared coming into it. From an emotional perspective, this is arguably “must-win” for him. Alcaraz has definitely had a recent ascension, with the notable comeback in last year’s French Open, beating Sinner at the US Open, regaining world No. 1, and winning 10 of their sixteen head-to-head matches, including seven on hard courts. Still, despite his age of 38, it is pretty absurd that Novak Djokovic is easily the third best at the tournament. He has not reached a major final since Wimbledon 2024 and not winning a slam since 2023, but with Melbourne as his strongest outing, it is hard not to route for him. Without a doubt, the Sincaraz rivalry of this season will provide both high quality tennis and Tiktok Ledit material.