Alcaraz overpowers Sinner to win thrilling US Open Final

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jannik Sinner in the 2025 US Open men’s singles final on Sunday, winning 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 to claim his second US Open title and the world No. 1 ranking.

The match, delayed slightly due to security measures surrounding President Donald Trump’s visit, showcased the electrifying “Sincaraz” rivalry, with Alcaraz’s relentless energy and bold playstyle outshining the defending champion in a best-of-five-sets battle.

The third consecutive Grand Slam final between the world’s top two players lived up to its billing as a clash of titans.

Alcaraz, who had not dropped a set en route to the final, dominated early with a commanding 6-2 first set, leveraging his powerful forehand and precise drop shots.

Sinner, the world No. 1 and 2024 US Open champion, fought back to take the second set 6-3, showcasing the resilience that has defined his stellar 2024 season.

However, Alcaraz regained control in the third set, cruising to a 6-1 victory before sealing the match in a tense fourth set.

“Alcaraz loves to be brave,” said former British No. 1 Annabel Croft on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra.

“He would rather be brave and lose the point than not be brave.”

This fearless approach was evident as Alcaraz held serve under pressure, notably in a “breathtaking service game” that left Sinner contemplating his options, according to Croft.

The fourth set saw Sinner save two championship points, including a stunning down-the-line shot to fend off the second, taking the game to deuce.

“Wow. What a shot that is from Sinner down the line,” commentators noted, as the Italian refused to go down without a fight.

Yet, Alcaraz’s composure shone through, with a cheeky smile after earning a third championship point, which he converted to secure the title.

Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli highlighted the pressure on Sinner, stating, “There is just too much pressure on Sinner – he cannot cope. The execution of the racquet is just extraordinary from the Spaniard.”

Alcaraz’s serving prowess, including a hold to love in the crucial moments, proved decisive, as he stood “two points from the title” at 30-0 in the final game.

This victory marks Alcaraz’s sixth Grand Slam title at just 22, bringing him level with Sinner’s career major count if the Italian had won.

The match also determined the ATP world No. 1 ranking, with Alcaraz overtaking Sinner, who had held the top spot for 65 weeks. Alcaraz’s 9-5 head-to-head edge over Sinner, including a 6-1 record since 2024, underscores his dominance in this rivalry.

The final was not without drama off the court. The start was delayed due to heightened security measures for President Trump’s attendance, adding an extra layer of tension to the high-stakes encounter.

Despite this, Alcaraz’s focus never wavered, delivering what Bartoli called “a showdown like never before.”

With this win, Alcaraz adds another chapter to his storied rivalry with Sinner, having edged out the Italian in an epic French Open final earlier this year, while Sinner had triumphed at Wimbledon.

“They’re just too good, playing on a really high level,” Novak Djokovic remarked after his semifinal loss to Alcaraz, a sentiment echoed by fans and analysts alike.