CINCINNATI — In a highly anticipated matchup that has become one of the most compelling rivalries in tennis, defending champion Jannik Sinner and world number two Carlos Alcaraz will face off in the final of the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open. Both players secured their spots with straight-set victories on Saturday, setting up their fourth major final clash of the season.
World number one Sinner, celebrating his 24th birthday, defeated French qualifier Terence Atmane 7-6, 6-2. The victory extended Sinner’s hard-court winning streak and continued his impressive form since winning Wimbledon last month. He is now looking to become the first man since Roger Federer in 2014-15 to win back-to-back titles in Cincinnati.
Alcaraz advanced to his second Cincinnati final after defeating a struggling Alexander Zverev, 6-4, 6-3. Zverev, who is diabetic, was visibly affected by the 32-degree Celsius heat and humidity and took a medical timeout during the second set. Alcaraz expressed concern for his opponent after the match, saying, “It was tough and I just wish him all the best.” Despite Zverev’s condition, Alcaraz won the last 12 points of the match to secure the victory.
The Cincinnati final will be a rematch of their recent showdown at Wimbledon, where Sinner defeated Alcaraz in four sets. The two young stars have already battled for trophies this year in Rome and Roland Garros, with Alcaraz winning both of those finals. Their rivalry has been dubbed by some commentators as the “New Two” or the “Big Two,” as they have collectively won the last four Grand Slams.
Alcaraz stated he is ready for the challenge, hoping to “adjust my game better and correct what I did wrong” in their last match. The final is scheduled for Monday, adding a unique twist to a highly anticipated encounter.