Jannik Sinner defeated Carlos Alcaraz 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-3 to win the Six Kings Slam exhibition on Saturday. The Italian star collected a $6 million prize after overcoming the top-ranked Spaniard, marking his first victory against Alcaraz this season after three previous losses.
Djokovic Outlasts Nadal in a Classic Showdown
Earlier, Novak Djokovic prevailed over Rafael Nadal 6-2, 7-6 (5) in the third-place match. This could be their last encounter in one of tennis’s greatest rivalries, as Nadal plans to retire after representing Spain in the Davis Cup next month. Djokovic, with 24 Grand Slam titles, has now extended his head-to-head lead against Nadal to 31-29. The two legends shared a warm embrace at the net following the match.
Djokovic expressed his emotions on social media, writing, “The last dance was an epic one. And of course emotional. I’ll cherish our rivalry forever. Tennis will miss you.”
The last dance was an epic one. And of course emotional. I’ll cherish our rivalry forever, @rafaelnadal 👑. Tennis will miss you.
As-salamu alaykum, Riyadh. #SixKingsSlam is a special tournament. See you soon 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/CnBswzZnLy
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) October 19, 2024
Future of the Sinner-Alcaraz Rivalry
Sinner’s victory sets the stage for a fierce future rivalry with Alcaraz, who has a 6-4 lead in their head-to-head meetings on Tour. Despite the loss, Alcaraz remains optimistic about their battles ahead, stating, “I will try to do my best every day … to hopefully make this rivalry better and better over the years.”
Alcaraz had previously beaten Sinner on October 2 at the China Open, as well as in their French Open and Indian Wells semifinals matches. Both players emerged victorious in the semifinal round of the exhibition, with Alcaraz defeating Nadal and Sinner overcoming Djokovic.
