Alcaraz eyes career slam after US Open triumph

NEW YORK: Carlos Alcaraz has set his sights on completing a career Grand Slam after clinching his sixth major title with a commanding win over Jannik Sinner in the US Open final on Sunday.

The 22-year-old Spaniard defeated his chief rival 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 to secure his second crown in New York. The victory not only underlined his dominance on hard courts but also rekindled his pursuit of the one missing piece in his collection: the Australian Open.

“It’s my first goal, to be honest,” Alcaraz said after the win. “When I go into preseason, what I want to improve and achieve is always tied to the Australian Open. To complete the career Grand Slam, that’s the dream.”

If successful in Melbourne next January, Alcaraz would become the youngest man in history to win all four majors, surpassing compatriot Rafael Nadal, who achieved the feat at 24 in 2010. Alcaraz, however, remains grounded, acknowledging that the quest may take longer. “Obviously I’m going to try to do it next year, but if not, then in two, three, or four. I’ll keep trying,” he added.

Back to World No. 1

Sunday’s triumph also ensures Alcaraz reclaims the world No. 1 ranking from Sinner, returning to the top for the first time since September 2023. “When you achieve the goals you set at the start of the year, it feels amazing,” he said. “Recovering number one was one of my main targets. Doing it on the same day as winning another Grand Slam feels even better.”

Fresh trim, same fire: Alcaraz begins US Open with statement win

Throughout the tournament, Alcaraz dropped just one set and reaffirmed his edge over Sinner, avenging his loss to the Italian in the Wimbledon final.

Rivalry and future potential

Alcaraz and Sinner have emerged as the defining rivalry of their generation, winning the last eight majors between them and 10 of the last 13 overall. The only other man to break through that streak has been Novak Djokovic.

Alcaraz’s coach Juan Carlos Ferrero praised his performance but stressed the importance of staying focused. “The potential to win many titles is there, but nothing is automatic. He’s 22—far from perfect. There’s still a lot to improve on,” Ferrero said.

With another US Open title in hand and the top ranking restored, Alcaraz now turns his gaze toward Melbourne, where history beckons.