"When Carlos Alcaraz is at the top, I consider him better. Today I changed my opinion" - Daniil Medvedev on Jannik Sinner post Six Kings Slam loss
Daniil Medvedev was handed a 6-0, 6-3 defeat by Jannik Sinner at the Six Kings Slam. It was the Russian’s third loss to the World No. 1 in two months. The loss made Medvedev rethink his earlier comparison between Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, who he believed to be a “slightly better” player than the Italian.
Speaking to the media during his post-match press conference, the Russian said Sinner was more consistent and machine-like but could only peak to a certain level. The Spaniard, he believed, was a better player when competing at his highest level. Sinner’s performance, however, forced him to change his opinion.
"I usually think of Jannik Sinner as a little bit more consistent, more like a machine, while Carlos Alcaraz is a little bit more, you know, swinging with some classy shots," Daniil Medvedev said. "But when Carlos is at the top of his game, I consider him slightly better. But we're talking about peak performance. Today I changed my opinion.
I've never played against someone who played like Jannik Sinner today. It was a tough feeling on the court because I was feeling good, I was fighting well, physically I felt good. My tennis wasn't that bad, and I lost easy, which I don't remember the last time this happened. That's how it went."
Sinner and Alcaraz, meanwhile, are still on course for a meeting in the Six Kings Slam final, having scored dominant wins in the opening matches.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are still in contention for the Six Kings Slam showdown
While Jannik Sinner won against Daniil Medvedev, Carlos Alcaraz eased past Holger Rune 6-2. 6-4. He was dominant in most departments, not letting his opponent any inroads into the match.
The Italian will now face Novak Djokovic in the exhibition tournament’s semifinals, while the Spaniard will lock horns with compatriot Rafael Nadal. The latter is playing in one of his final tournaments, having earlier announced his decision to retire after the Davis Cup final.