Jannik Sinner staged a dramatic comeback against Tommy Paul on Friday, securing his place in the Italian Open final with a 1-6, 6-0, 6-3 victory. The world No. 1, playing before a packed center court in Rome, overcame a sluggish start to extend his unbeaten streak to 26 matches since returning from a three-month hiatus earlier this year.
Sinner will now face Carlos Alcaraz, the last player to defeat him at the China Open in October 2023, in a highly anticipated final on Sunday. A win would make Sinner the first Italian men's champion at the Foro Italico since Adriano Panatta in 1976.
Alcaraz earned his spot earlier Friday by defeating Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) in challenging windy conditions. The four-time Grand Slam champion needed just over two hours to secure his fourth final appearance of the season.
The rivalry between the 23-year-old Sinner and 21-year-old Alcaraz has become one of tennis' most compelling narratives, with their Rome clash serving as a potential preview of Roland Garros battles next month. Their last meeting at the China Open saw Alcaraz triumph in straight sets, adding stakes to Sunday's showdown.
With Sinner aiming to end Italy's 48-year wait for a home champion and Alcaraz seeking his first clay-court title of 2024, the final promises high-intensity rallies and strategic mastery. Tennis analysts highlight the match as critical for momentum building ahead of the French Open.
