Welcome back tennis. The “Super-Match” in South Korea between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner lights up 2026. Tomorrow’s performance (from 8 Italian) is the best appetizer at the Australian Open (18 January-1 February). The world numbers 1 and 2, rulers of 2025, met to present the challenge that awaits them on the indoor hard court of the Inspire Arena in Incheon and spoke about the sporting rivalry that unites them, how they prepared the season and their respective expectations, without excluding the possibility of one day finding themselves on the same side of the net for a stellar double. Then they warmed up by dribbling at the ping-pong table, surrounded by dozens of journalists and onlookers. «We are happy that so many people are waiting to see us play. The energy that accompanied us from the airport is fantastic – began Sinner -. We will try to show the best tennis possible. The most important thing will be to entertain the public and be ready for the big event in Australia, which is clearly the most important. I’m happy to start this season here and in a match with Carlos.”
The “dream” of a double together
“The welcome I had was incredible, I don’t remember a welcome like this”, confirmed the Spaniard. They have not ruled out the possibility of seeing them together. “We play so many tournaments, it’s difficult to participate even in doubles. But we could probably do it from Seoul… at least once. I would say that I play on the forehand and he plays on the backhand,” Alcaraz joked. «We’ve never talked about it, but it would be nice to be on the same side of the pitch. This year or next, why not”, added the Italian. In 2025 they became the first to face each other in three Slam finals in the same season since 1964. «Ours is a great rivalry on the court, we have a good relationship. It’s a pleasure to face the number 1 – said Sinner – Carlos always pushes me to the limit. But we cannot compare ourselves to the Big 3. If we were to drop a little, the others are ready to take our place.” Sinner also talked about the Australian Open. «I had time to prepare for the season in the best possible way. I spent Christmas at home and this gives you even more energy – he added -. We have a few small details to sort out before Australia because the conditions will be completely different to those of the last few months.” The South Tyrolean will defend the title won last year, chasing a historic trio. «Starting the season here with Jannik I think is a great way to prepare for Melbourne» underlined Alcaraz. And on 2026: «We hope to play finals and many matches together. Let’s see what this year brings us.” Relaxed atmosphere, there is time for some jokes. Question for Alcaraz: what is your most underrated shot? And Sinner, laughing: «Come on, tell me the truth…». Response from #1: «I think the other way around. A lot of people talk about my forehand, but not my backhand. Yet it’s not bad…”. Sinner nods: «I can confirm, it’s not bad».