Carlos Alcaraz responds when asked what he thinks is the most difficult thing about playing against Jannik Sinner

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Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are set to reignite their exciting rivalry in early 2026, when they will go head-to-head in South Korea.

Incheon Inspire Arena will play host to an exhibition match between Sinner and Alcaraz, which takes place in mid-January.

The clash will see the current holders of all four Grand Slams meet on the court, with the ATP duo having also won all four titles in 2024.

Sinner also enters the tournament as the ATP Finals champion, having beaten his fierce rival Alcaraz in the final.

Carlos Alcaraz explains the most difficult thing about facing Jannik Sinner

Despite the defeat, the Spanish star holds a positive head-to-head record over the Italian, with 10 wins and six losses.

Asked what the most difficult part of playing against Sinner is, Alcaraz told Tennis Korea: “Jannik and I have been on tour since we were young, and we know each other’s game intimately.

“There’s almost nothing to hide on the court. Jannik is a player with essentially no weaknesses. He’s powerful offensively, and his defense is incredibly fast and stable.

“He’s absolutely dominant in the 2025 season, winning two Grand Slams, the ATP Finals, and remaining in contention for the world No. 1 spot until the very end.

“Playing against him isn’t enough. You have to maintain a high level of focus throughout the match, and there’s no room for a moment of complacency. He’s a player you have to give 100% from the first point to the last to create a chance of winning.”

While Sinner pushed hard for the ATP year-end number one ranking, it was indeed Alcaraz who claimed the honor.

Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz react to their rivalry being compared to that of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal

Sinner and Alcaraz are currently playing out the best rivalry on the ATP Tour, and arguably in the entire tennis world.

It has been discussed by both players ahead of their next meeting, with the duo told that many fans are expecting their rivalry to match that of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

READ MORE: ATP player with just two titles backed to become ‘even better’ than Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz

Sharing his take, Alcaraz said: “This comparison is truly an honor for me as a player. I think it means a lot that tennis fans feel that way when watching our matches.

“Rivalries in sports are a powerful element that fuel fan interest, and I, too, was inspired by the rivalry between Rafa and Roger as I grew up.

“Jannik and I have already faced each other on many major stages and have had intense matches. We’ve faced each other in several Grand Slam finals, and I believe we make each other stronger.

“With both of us still having a long career ahead of us, I expect we can continue this positive rivalry that will help us grow together.”

And Sinner commented: “Rivalries are a huge part of our sport. Back in the day, there were great rivalries between Roger, Rafa, Novak [Djokovic], and Andy [Murray], and that trend has continued for generations before that.

“Rivalries have always existed throughout tennis history, and I think they’ve played a huge role in creating the appeal of the sport. So, it makes me happy to hear that I’m developing that kind of relationship with Carlos.

“Of course, it’s not just our rivalry. There are so many great players on tour, and there are so many different matchups.

“Rivalries hold a special meaning for both the fans and the players. These elements make tennis more exciting, and I’m happy to be a part of that.”

Federer and Nadal helped form the Big Three alongside Djokovic, while Murray created another intriguing element to that rivalry with his efforts over the years.

Intriguingly, Nadal met Federer a huge 40 times during their ATP Tour careers, with the Spaniard claiming 24 wins compared to the 16 of the Swiss star.