Carlos Alcaraz looks forward to the ‘big challenge’ against Jannik Sinner in the Six Kings Slam final

Well he’s the best player in the world right now. At least for me. Playing him is a really big challenge. Seeing the year he’s having, it’s amazing. Not many losses. It’s gonna be a tough challenge for me. I’ve played really good battles, tough ones. I expect a really difficult and good match. I think the people will enjoy it. I’ll try my best to beat him and win the tournament. Let’s see on Saturday. It’s not gonna be easy.

Carlos Alcaraz said in his post-match interview

Sinner and Alcaraz have played each other three times in 2024, with the Spaniard winning on all three occasions. Their most recent encounter was in the Beijing final, where Alcaraz won in a final-set tiebreak.

Despite their head-to-head record, Sinner has been the best player this year, securing the Year-End No.1 ranking earlier this month. Alcaraz is likely to finish as No.2 after his performances in Beijing and Shanghai.

Carlos Alcaraz shares insight into his preparation against Rafael Nadal in the Six Kings Slam

Carlos Alcaraz stated that he stuck to the basics during his highly-anticipated match against Rafael Nadal in the Six Kings Slam semifinal. The two Spaniards faced each other for the final time on Thursday, October 17, as Nadal is set to retire after Spain’s Davis Cup campaign.

No. trust me I had to play at my best level. Obviously Rafa has been out of competition. In tennis you have to have matches on the court to feel good. I knew I had to be focused. Try to play my best tennis if I want to best Rafa. It’s always tough. It’s been a good moment and a good time sharing the court with him once again.

Carlos Alcaraz in his post-match interview

Alcaraz was dominant from the start, winning eight consecutive points to open the match. Although Nadal recovered and maintained a good level, the World No.2 kept his service games solid and took the first set 6-3.

The second set unfolded similarly, with Alcaraz securing one crucial break, which proved decisive. The 21-year-old sealed the victory when Nadal sent a backhand return long. The duo shared a warm embrace at the net after the match before giving their post-match interviews. They will represent Spain together later this year in the Davis Cup.