Alcaraz wins epic Roland Garros final for fifth Grand Slam title

Carlos Alcaraz rewrote the history of Roland Garros on Sunday, 8th June. He defeated world No. The ATP confirmed that this was the longest ever final played on Parisian clay. The 22-year old Spaniard won 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4 7-6(3) 7-6(2) after five hours and twenty-eight minutes. This was his second consecutive Roland Garros title and fifth Grand Slam trophy in his career.

Alcaraz thanked his team, supporters and family after the match: “I would like to thank my team for everything.” You’ve given me the opportunity to live great moments. Thank you to all those who came to Murcia to show their support. This trophy is also YOURS.”

The match on Court Philippe Chatrier marked the first Grand Slam Final between two players who are widely considered leaders of a young generation. Alcaraz and Sinner – who are at the top of the ATP ranking – delivered a thrilling contest with high stakes and breathtaking rallies. It was “one the greatest matches played ever” for the ATP and a reminder about the exciting future of men’s tennis.

Alcaraz reached the final despite losing sets in his four previous matches in Paris. But facing Sinner — who had not lost a set in the tournament and was on a 20-match Grand Slam winning streak — the Spaniard raised his level to meet the challenge. The Italian defeated Novak Djokovic clinically in the semi finals and arrived at his Roland Garros debut with undeniable energy.

Sinner won the first two sets. The Italian was confident and punished Alcaraz for his inconsistencies. He also briefly required a medical break from the Spaniard due to an eye problem. Alcaraz showed his trademark resilience in the third game, despite trailing two sets to one for the very first time in major finals. Alcaraz took the lead after Sinner broke at the start of the third set.

The fourth game descended into chaos. Sinner led 5-3 with three championships points on Alcaraz’s serve. But the Spaniard came back to force a tie-break. This extended the match into the decisive fifth set. This was a moment that the ATP called “a turning point in which Alcaraz’s strength of mind proved unmatched.”

Both players reached their limits in the final game. Alcaraz broke Sinner first but the Italian came back to tie it at 5-5. Alcaraz won the match after a game where the momentum changed with every game. He won the tie-break and lifted the Cup des Mousquetaires once more.

Sinner stated during the trophy celebration, “It’s much easier to play now than it is to speak.” “Congratulations, both to you and the team. This has been an incredible two weeks. You deserve it.”

Warmth and respect

Alcaraz replied with warmth and respect. “You are a player of incredible ability and I am sure that you will win many titles, not just one.” It’s an honor to be on the same court as you and make history with you. You’re an inspiration to the younger generation — and to me.”

Alcaraz is only the third player to have defended the Roland Garros title in the 21st Century, after Rafael Nadal, and Gustavo Kuerten. According to the ATP, he is also one of just three men in the Open Era — along with Björn Borg and Roger Federer — to defend titles at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon.

This victory narrows the gap in the PIF ATP Rankings between Alcaraz (No. 1) and Sinner (2,030 points) by a win. Sinner has occupied the No. 1 spot since August 20, 2023. However, the race to No. The race for No. 1 is wide open as we enter the grass-court tennis season.

Alcaraz also strengthened his lead over Sinner in the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin. He now holds a 1,790-point edge as he aims to qualify for a fourth consecutive Nitto ATP finals.

The ATP noted that the Spaniard was only the sixth person in Open Era history to come back from two set down and win a Roland Garros Final. The other players are Borg, Lendl and Agassi.

Sinner’s defeat in the Grand Slam final is his first, but his performance in Paris has cemented his position as a serious contender for major titles in the future. The ATP said that the Italian’s performance confirmed his “growing strength on clay” and his ability to compete with the best.

With the French capital once again under his spell, Alcaraz departs Roland Garros not only as a back-to-back champion but as a leading figure of a new tennis era — one that promises many more epic battles to come.

You can find out more about us by clicking here. Spanish news in English.