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The men’s final at the 2025 US Open promises to be a showdown for the ages as defending champion Jannik Sinner takes on long-time rival Carlos Alcaraz. This will be their 16th career meeting, their fifth clash of the season, and remarkably, their sixth straight final against one another—a testament to how this rivalry has become the centerpiece of men’s tennis.
Road to the Final
Sinner secured his spot in the championship match with a four-set victory over 25th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime. Although he dropped the second set, the Italian regained control and sealed the win in just over three hours. The 24-year-old is riding a 13-match winning streak at Flushing Meadows and is on the verge of becoming the first player in 17 years to defend the US Open crown. With two Grand Slam titles already this year—the Australian Open and Wimbledon—Sinner has underlined his dominance, winning 37 of his last 41 matches.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, breezed into the final without dropping a set. His semifinal triumph came against none other than Novak Djokovic, a four-time US Open champion, in a commanding two-hour, 26-minute display. The Spaniard’s season has been nothing short of phenomenal, with a 60–6 record and six titles, including the French Open where he toppled Sinner. Although denied a third consecutive Wimbledon title by the Italian, Alcaraz has arrived in New York with renewed determination.
Playing Styles and Strengths
Sinner’s strength lies in his powerful two-handed backhand and relentless baseline game. Tall and athletic, he combines offensive firepower with defensive range, making him a difficult opponent to break down. His consistency across surfaces this year has reinforced his reputation as one of the most complete players in the game.
Alcaraz, by contrast, thrives on unpredictability. His aggressive all-court style allows him to switch tactics mid-match, keeping opponents guessing. Armed with a devastating forehand and remarkable adaptability, the Spaniard has built a reputation as the most dynamic young player on tour. His ability to raise his level in finals—having already beaten Sinner in four championship matches—adds weight to his chances.
Head-to-Head Dynamics
In their 15 prior encounters, Alcaraz holds the edge with 10 victories. More tellingly, four of those wins came in title-deciding matches, where his ability to deliver under pressure has been evident. While Sinner’s consistency and recent form are undeniable, history suggests that Alcaraz often finds another gear when silverware is on the line.
Prediction
Everything points to a classic. Sinner enters as the bookmakers’ narrow favorite, unbeaten at the US Open since last year. However, Alcaraz’s current momentum, his perfect run to the final without dropping a set, and his dominant head-to-head record tilt the scales in his favor.
Prediction: Carlos Alcaraz to win the 2025 US Open final.
The Spaniard’s 12-match winning streak, combined with his proven ability to outlast Sinner in finals, makes him the likelier champion. Expect a tight, high-quality battle filled with long rallies, but Alcaraz’s explosiveness and confidence may ultimately carry him to a second US Open crown.
