Carlos Alcaraz Defends Jannik Sinner Over Davis Cup Controversy

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are set to play the final tournament of the year in which both will appear, the Nitto ATP Finals. While Alcaraz will also be in action later this month in Bologna on national duty at the Davis Cup, the Italian star decided to skip the annual team event, opting instead for a longer training block ahead of a pivotal 2026 season.

That decision sparked massive backlash in Italy from fans, media, and former players. Sinner openly accepted the criticism in a press conference earlier this month. Now his generational rival has come to his defense in an interview with Marca in Turin.

Sinner to Skip Davis Cup Finals

Alcaraz Understands Sinner’s Decision

When asked whether he understood Sinner’s withdrawal, Alcaraz didn’t hesitate.

“The schedule is very tough and difficult. Even more so in Jannik’s case, since he reaches the final rounds in every tournament. He’s already won the Davis Cup the last two years, representing his country, playing both singles and doubles. I think no one has given more sweat and effort for their country than him. It’s true that this is the first year it’s being held in Italy, and people wanted to see him at home, but everyone has to make their own decisions, and I personally understand his.”

Although the Spaniard will compete in the Davis Cup Finals after playing almost 80 matches this season, compared to Sinner’s 60, he fully recognizes the grind of the calendar and how crucial Sinner has been for Italian tennis. Across the past two years, Sinner has won all nine of his Davis Cup rubbers, six singles and three doubles.

A Rivalry Rooted in Respect

The relationship between Alcaraz and Sinner has been under the spotlight ever since both became dominant forces on the ATP Tour. Their rivalry has already delivered multiple classics on court, and moments like this off court reinforce the admiration they share for one another. Fans are demanding their matchups so intensely that organizers are scheduling exhibitions worldwide to bring them together.

All of this is happening while the two are locked in a fierce battle for the year-end No.1 ranking. Both enter Turin with a realistic chance of finishing on top. When asked which he valued more — the year-end No. 1 or winning the ATP Finals — Alcaraz made it clear he has his eyes on both.

“I think both things go hand in hand. They are two big goals. I would love to win the Finals tournament someday, and the number one ranking has been a clear objective throughout the season.”

Despite Alcaraz dominating the rivalry recently, winning seven of their last eight meetings, 2025 has been the year of “SinCaraz”. They split the four Majors, claimed four Masters titles between them, and maintained near-90 percent win rates. And something tells us this is only the beginning of an era-defining rivalry.