Sinner – Foto: @janniksin
Italian Jannik Sinner, world number 2, won the Six Kings Slam exhibition tournament in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday (18). In a high-level final, Sinner defeated Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, the current world number 1, 6-2, 6-4 in straight sets. The victory marks a rematch for the Italian, who had lost to Alcaraz in three Grand Slam finals in 2025. His impeccable serving performance was key to the triumph.
The clash featured the two biggest names in tennis today. Sinner stood out for his precision, facing no break points. Alcaraz, however, struggled with his serve. The win does not count for ATP rankings but highlights the rivalry between the players.
- Sinner’s performance: 81% first-serve points won, no double faults.
- Alcaraz’s struggles: 61% first-serve points, three double faults.
- Tournament format: Luxury exhibition, no impact on official rankings.
- Recent history: Sinner’s first win over Alcaraz in 2025.
Sinner d. Carlos Alcaraz 6-2 6-4
Jannik wins the Six Kings Slam for the 2nd year in a row.
There were no holes in his game whatsoever today.
Serve and return were simply untouchable.
Movement was suffocating.
His groundstrokes and even his volleys were just incredible.… pic.twitter.com/1pkFM5r1E8
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 18, 2025
Sinner’s impeccable performance
Sinner dominated the first set with authority. He broke Alcaraz’s serve in the opening game, securing an early lead. Another break in the fifth game sealed the set at 6-2.
Alcaraz’s reaction in the second set
The second set was more competitive, with Alcaraz raising his level. He saved break points in the fifth game, holding a 3-2 lead. Despite the resistance, Sinner remained aggressive and secured a decisive break in the seventh game.
Constant pressure from the Italian
Sinner kept the pressure on, capitalizing on Alcaraz’s errors. In the seventh game of the second set, he was clinical, securing the break that shaped the final. Serving for the title, he gave no chances, closing the match at 6-4. The match lasted about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with clear Italian dominance.
Rivalry in the spotlight
Sinner’s victory strengthens his rivalry with Alcaraz, who defeated him in three Grand Slam finals this year. The Six Kings Slam, with its massive prize money, featured top male tennis stars. Sinner solidifies his status as a favorite for the 2026 season. The event underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports.
Impact on the tennis scene
The Six Kings Slam, though not affecting rankings, is a prestigious event. It drew attention for its high technical level and record prize money, reinforcing Sinner and Alcaraz as tennis protagonists.
Preparation for 2026
With the title, Sinner gains confidence for upcoming challenges. The 2025 season saw intense duels between him and Alcaraz, and the Riyadh win may signal a shift in their rivalry. Sinner now focuses on official tournaments, while Alcaraz aims to reclaim dominance in 2026.
