Jannik Sinner is the new champion in Monte Carlo, having dethroned Carlos Alcaraz in today’s showpiece final.
It was the clash that the entire tennis world had been craving for months, given we had yet to see them meet on the court in 2026.
Sadly, with swirling conditions, neither player was able to show their brilliant best, and it was far from vintage as the Italian claimed the title.
And, in winning this trophy, his first truly big event on the clay, Jannik Sinner has actually also retaken the world number one spot from his great rival.
He spoke on court afterwards, reflecting on this incredible achievement.
Jannik Sinner speaks after winning the title in Monte Carlo
The new world number one began by trying to calm himself, admitting he was near-speechless after what he had accomplished.
Sinner stated: “I don’t know where to start, honestly. We came here trying to get as many matches as possible, having good feedback before the big tournaments coming up.”
How would you rate that Monte Carlo final out of 10?
Then, reflecting on the match, he admitted: “Today was not a very high level from both of us. It was windy. Very different conditions to what the tournament has brought until today.
“But the result was amazing. Getting back to number one means a lot to me, but at the same time, the ranking is secondary.
“I am very happy to win at least one big trophy on this surface. I have not done it before, so it means a lot to me.”
Discussing those aforementioned conditions, which were perfectly exemplified by the flags above the stadium whipping ferociously throughout the match, Sinner added: “I felt close on the return games. I had a feeling the new balls help me, the ball change was at 2-1. I tried to stay there mentally. To keep pushing and pushing. I felt a bit tired, so I tried to keep up with the mentality and having this trophy with me now means a lot to me.”
Alcaraz had been putting in extra practice on his serve ahead of the Monte Carlo Masters final, but it did not pay off despite taking the lead in both sets, both of which he lost.
Carlos Alcaraz reacts as Jannik Sinner matches tennis history
Unsurprisingly, Carlos Alcaraz was magnanimous as he delivered his runners-up speech.
After all, whilst his rivalry with Sinner is fierce, the respect they share overrides any other emotion.
Speaking on-court after what must be a crushing loss for him, he still managed to congratulate his opponent.
Alcaraz claimed: “As far as I am concerned, the Sunshine double and then Monte Carlo. You are the second one to achieve it, and it is something incredible.
“I just explained how difficult it is to make that happen, so congratulations for everything. For the work you are doing with your team.”
