‘Novak Djokovic is the World No.1.’ This phrase has long echoed through the halls of the tennis world, becoming almost a mantra in the sport. However, as the twilight of an era approaches, with legends either retired or on the cusp of retirement, tennis finds itself at the dawn of a new age. The mantle of leadership is shifting, and the need for fresh talent to represent the sport on the global stage has never been more pressing. Carlos Alcaraz also represented similar sentiments. 

In a recent interaction, featured on the Tennis Channel, Alcaraz expressed great pride in holding the top position in the ATP ranking. He spoke about his views on Jannik Sinner and his holding the World No. 1 and No. 2 rankings respectively and said that it was much needed for the young generation.  Speaking in the interview, Sinner said, “Being number 1 and number 2, 21, and 22 years old, or 23, it’s something unbelievable.”

Continuing further, he explained that such an achievement is needed because it boosts the morale of the young players. “I think Tennis, Tennis, needed that. Or I think so. The new generation or the young people, uh, standing in the top position, I think it’s something great. Having new faces in the top, uh for me, it’s something, its something, good for tennis.” 

Sinner and Alcaraz’s reign began soon after Novak Djokovic pulled out of the French Open following a torn medial meniscus. As soon as Sinner advanced to the semis and Alcaraz won the Grand Slam, they beat Nole and pushed him down to the third spot. Meanwhile, the current ATP rankings also resonate Carlitos’ recent comments.

As of June 19, 10 of the top 20 players are 25 years of age or under. This speaks volumes about the representation of new and young faces in the tennis arena and how the sport is moving towards a new set of rivalries. The supremacy of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz is also evident from the deals that they are being offered by top companies.

In a sensational development, sportswear giant Nike offered a deal of $15-$20 million annually to Carlos Alcaraz. Earlier, Jannik Sinner had also received a similar deal from the company in 2022 which is clocked in at $158 million for 10 years. On top of that, both the players have received their own personalized logo from the company. What makes this deal a luxury is the fact that even Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer did not get such a deal at this young age. Meanwhile, the Spaniard admitted facing difficulties as he begins his grass-court season.

“It is good to have…”: Carlos Alcaraz demonstrates resilience after first round scare at Queen’s Club

The 21-year-old marked a winning return to the Cinch championship after lifting the Grand Slam in France. While he began the first set with total domination, the second set saw him trailing 2-5. However, he continued his skillful gameplay and won against Francis Cerundolo in straight sets. He, however, did not shy away from expressing the challenges he faced.

Speaking at the post-match interview, he said, “The first match in any tournament is never easy but even more difficult here on grass, starting the grass season.” Continuing further, he expressed how good of an opponent was Cerundolo. “You want to do a good result and have to deal with a lot of expectations that you put on yourself. I am really happy with the match and it was a good test, playing with Francisco. It was close in the second set. It is good to have tough situations. Having to deal with nerves.”

As Alcaraz continues his streak at the Queen’s Club, it will be interesting to see if he can defend his title, and eventually the Grand Slam at Wimbledon.