Carlos Alcaraz’s biggest rival Jannik Sinner is back on the ATP Tour and he couldn’t be happier.
All eyes are on the Foro Italico as the World number one Sinner plays his first match since January following his three-month doping ban.
The 23-year-old tested positive for banned substance clostebol on two occasions in 2024, which left the tennis world stunned.
But Jannik Sinner can now put the scenario behind him and get back to playing tennis which starts on home soil.
Carlos Alcaraz shares his honest opinion about Jannik Sinner’s return to tennis
Many shared their thoughts and feelings about Sinner’s three month ban from professional tennis.
The three-time Grand Slam champion Sinner tested positive for clostebol at the 2024 Indian Wells Masters. While some players criticised the decision for Sinner to be banned, others took an opposing view.
Now Carlos Alcaraz has shared his view on his rival’s return, and he is pleased to see him back both personally and for the good of tennis. “It is great, honestly. I see him around and for me it’s great to have him back,” the Spaniard told Tennis Channel.
“Honestly I am going to say I need him on the tour! He pushes me to be a better player, to give my 100% percent every day just to be better.
“Of course, I always defend tennis. And I think tennis needs him to bring new fans. His tennis is huge. He is insane. I love watching him play.
“So having the chance to see him and watch his tennis again, it is great. I am just really, really happy. But it is not a different feeling. Just great for me, for tennis and for the fans here in Rome.”
Can Carlos Alcaraz play Jannik Sinner at the Italian Open?
In Rome Alcaraz and Sinner could play one another for the first time since October 2024 in China.
The two players have been placed on opposite sides of the Italian Open draw and cannot face each other until the final.
Alcaraz has made a fine start to his campaign by beating Dušan Lajović. This was the 25th tour victory for Alcaraz this season, which was the most of any player.
This was his first match since the Barcelona Open after Alcaraz missed the Italian Open due to an injury.
Sinner on the other hand, is back in action for the first time since January and will receive a raucous reception when he takes on Mariano Navone.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
