'I'm sure it wasn't easy': Carlos Alcaraz praises Jannik Sinner's 'insane' Rome comeback after doping ban

Carlos Alcaraz had words of praise for Jannik Sinner after overcoming him in the Rome Open final. The Spaniard showed his sportsmanship towards the Italian and his support for the local player after a difficult three-month suspension, praising his return at such a high level despite the lack of match rhythm.

Alcaraz claimed his 7th Masters 1000 title and his second consecutive clay-court Masters, racking up a 15-1 record in the clay swing. The four-time Grand Slam champion congratulated Sinner on his great weeks in the Italian capital, adding another chapter to their rivalry.

The four-time Grand Slam champion said he was ‘super happy’ with what his rival had achieved and his return to the courts to resume their rivalry. “I’m really happy to see Jannik back at this amazing level. I’m sure it wasn’t easy for him coming from 3 months without playing.

“First tournament he plays, he reached the final of a Masters 1000 here in Rome. It’s something insane. I have to congratulate him for the great work. For his team as well. Super happy to see them around again.”

Alcaraz managed to return to world No. 2 after a great week and will arrive at Roland Garros full of confidence where he defends the title. Both will be the first and second seeds respectively, so they could only face each other in a potential final at the French Open.