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Boris Becker shares what he finds ‘bizarre’ about Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s rivalry

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Boris Becker was at the forefront of some of the fiercest rivalries in tennis when he was at the top of the game in the 1990s.

The stars duels with Michael Stich, Andre Agassi, and Pat Cash in several Grand Slam finals will go down in history, but there was little friendship away from the court.

Becker is still at the forefront of the sport as a commentator and he’s kept a watchful eye over Alcaraz and Sinner’s incredible rivalry at the top of the ATP Tour.

Becker has often praised Jannik Sinner and now he’s shared his thoughts on the Italian’s jovial relationship with Alcaraz.

Jannik Sinner of Italy (L) and Carlos Alcaraz of Spain (R) pose for a photo prior to the final singles match between Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and Jannik Sinner of Italy on Day eight of the Nitto ATP World Tour Finals. Jannik Sinner wins 7-6. 7-5 over Carlos Alcaraz.
Photo by Marco Canoniero/LightRocket via Getty Images

Boris Becker calls Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s relationship ‘bizarre’

Becker spoke to The Guardian about the current state of tennis and he offered his opinion on the best two players in the world.

Speaking about Sinner and Alcaraz’s rivalry, the German revealed: “Well, it’s a little bizarre, but they’re role models and it’s wonderful they have this chemistry on and off court.

“Our generation was different. We didn’t have any social media. We had different qualities. But, in this trying world, I really appreciate Jannik and Carlos’s behaviour.

Who do you think will win more Grand Slam titles in 2026?

Becker opened up about his relationship with both of the stars, including the conversations he’s had with them.

The former world number one explained: “I talk to them, as they don’t shy away from conversations with us former champions.”

Sinner and Alcaraz played each other six times across 2025, all of which were in tournament finals. Alcaraz four of their six matches this year.

How close Boris Becker came to coaching Jannik Sinner in 2022

In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Becker revealed that he almost became Sinner’s coach before Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill jumped aboard.

He said: “I have never talked about it, but it’s true. I was close to becoming Jannik’s coach in 2022. Why did it not happen? Two months later, I was expecting the London trial. I explained to Jannik that I did not know how it would end, so I could not commit.

“I did not want to leave him without anything, and I provided a couple of names. One was Darren Cahill, and it was the best pick in my opinion. I believe they will work beyond 2025. I was convinced Jannik could become the world’s best player.”

Sinner has won four Grand Slams under Vagnozzi and Cahill, both of whom are expected to stay for the 2026 season.