Tennis: Alcaraz fights back to retain French Open title

Defending champion, Carlos Alcaraz, recovered from two sets down – saving three championship points on the way – to defeat Jannik Sinner in an incredible French Open men’s singles final.
Alcaraz’s reign on the Roland Garros clay looked to be over when world number one Sinner closed in on victory at 5-3 in the fourth set.
But the 22-year-old Spaniard showed extraordinary fight to win 4-6 6-7 (4-7) 6-4 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (10-2) after five hours and 29 minutes – the longest French Open final in history.

In an electrifying atmosphere on Court Philippe Chatrier, Alcaraz produced the finest performance of his career to claim a fifth major title.
In his victory speech, he told Sinner: “The level you have is amazing. It is a privilege to share a court with you in every tournament and in making history.”
Alcaraz is the first man to win a Grand Slam title after saving match point since Novak Djokovic beat Roger Federer in the 2019 Wimbledon final.
The world number two had never previously won a match after losing the opening two sets.
Sinner, bidding for a maiden Roland Garros triumph, was denied his third successive major after a gruelling, gritty and glorious encounter.
“It’s easier to play than talk now,” said the 23-year-old, who was playing in only his second tournament since returning from a three-month ban for failing two doping tests.
“I’m still happy with this trophy – I won’t sleep very well tonight but it is okay”.
The first Grand Slam showpiece between the two dominant players on the ATP Tour had been a tantalising prospect – and it surpassed the hype.
Both Alcaraz and Sinner pushed themselves – and each other – to the limit in a classic contest that showcased all of their shot-making, athleticism and resilience.
Their fascinating rivalry is quickly turning into an enduring duel that could transcend the sport.
It has all the facets – the core talent, gripping encounters on the biggest stages and the blend of personalities.
Alcaraz, with his swashbuckling style, passion and infectious smile, has long been a box-office star who engages millions of fans.
In the toughest moments of the battle against Sinner, he continued to play with freedom – perhaps too much for his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero – and demanded more noise from the Paris crowd.