In the ongoing conversation about the current state of tennis, many prominent figures are hailing Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as pioneers of a new era, with some claiming they are playing at an unprecedented level. Recently, former world No. 1 Mats Wilander stirred the pot by suggesting that the performances of Alcaraz and Sinner surpass even those of the legendary trio: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
Wilander made these bold assertions during an interview with Eurosport, stating, “They are following in the footsteps of the ‘Big Three’ in terms of level.” He further added, “I hope Roger, Novak, and Rafa are not listening, but in terms of level, when Sinner and Alcaraz are at their best, there is no way anyone has ever played better tennis. The ball has never done more complicated, difficult things than when it’s in play between Sinner and Alcaraz.”
Supporting Wilander’s perspective, British tennis player Liam Broady acknowledged the duo’s impact on the sport after witnessing their electrifying match at the Six Kings Slam in Saudi Arabia. “It was an absolutely incredible match,” Broady remarked to Sky Sports Tennis. “They can’t seem to help but create highlight reels in every three-set match. The ball striking is some of the best I’ve ever seen. I hate to admit it as a ‘Big 3’ fan, but they hit the ball so big and consistently. I’ve never seen anything like it.”
Adding to the discussion, world No. 6 Taylor Fritz provided valuable insight, suggesting that Alcaraz and Sinner hit with a power and precision that rivals, if not surpasses, that of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. Fritz, who has firsthand experience competing during the ‘Big 3’ era, emphasized the remarkable defensive skills of both players: “Their defense is incredible,” he stated on the Tennis Channel. “They don’t really play that much defense; when they are full on the run, they just crush the ball.”
Fritz elaborated, explaining that in rallies against either Alcaraz or Sinner, “I can be in a backhand cross-court rally, and if I hit a forehand, it’s got to be perfect. Otherwise, that next ball is getting drilled cross-court.” He drew parallels between their rallies and those of the past greats: “When Sinner and Alcaraz go corner to corner, it’s like those long exchanges we used to see with Nadal and Fed, but they’re hitting the ball ten miles an hour faster. It’s just crazy.”
With insights from top players currently competing, the debate surrounding the caliber of tennis from Alcaraz and Sinner intensifies. Many were skeptical that the next generation could match or exceed the legendary feats of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. However, the emergence of this new ‘Big 2’ is undoubtedly raising the bar, showcasing the thrilling potential of the sport’s future.
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