Carlos Alcaraz v Jannik Sinner thriller joins list of classic men's finals
Roger Federer v Rafael Nadal (Wimbledon final 2008)
Spain's Rafael Nadal celebrates his victory over Switzerland's Roger Federer (Sean Dempsey/PA)
Nadal came out on top 6–4 6–4 6–7(5) 6–7(8) 9–7 as two tennis greats went head-to-head in a final lasting almost five hours.
Spaniard Nadal stormed into a two-set lead but Federer battled back with two tie-break victories.
Rain delays played a part in building tension for a deciding set which Nadal edged 9–7 to claim his maiden Wimbledon title.
Bjorn Borg v John McEnroe – Wimbledon final 1980
Federer's clash with Nadal was championed as the greatest final since Borg beat McEnroe in 1980.
In just under four hours, four-time champion Borg beat brash young New Yorker McEnroe 1-6 7-5 6-3 6-7 (16) 8-6.
McEnroe would not go away, saving seven championship points during the match, but Borg eventually saw it through.
Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal (Australian Open final 2012)
Djokovic claimed his third Australian Open title with a 5–7 6–4 6–2 6–7 7–5 triumph over Nadal in the longest final of the Open era.
The five-hour 53-minute contest between the two top-ranked players at the time, beat the record set in the 1988 US Open final.
The final set saw the two deadlocked at 4-4 before a Djokovic break of serve allowed the match to conclude in the early hours in Melbourne.
Novak Djokovic vs. Roger Federer (Wimbledon final 2019)
Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer (left) shake hands after the mens singles final on day thirteen of the Wimbledon (Victoria Jones/PA)
Federer was beaten in the last major final of his career as world number one Djokovic toppled the second seed 7-6 1-6 7-6 4-6 13-12 in another near five-hour affair.
The Serbian eventually claimed the deciding set in what is the longest Wimbledon final in history.
Andy Murray vs Roger Federer (London 2012 Olympics final)
Andy Murray put his Wimbledon final defeat to Federer a month earlier behind him, gaining revenge with a 6–2 6–1 6–4 victory to claim Olympic Gold.
A home crowd roared Murray on to Team GB's first medal in the event since 1908 in a contest which sticks in the memory for the emotion of Murray's display and undoubted quality as he got past the then world number one.
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Wales Online
23 minutes ago
- Wales Online
Carlos Alcaraz's inner circle that inspired French Open win after heartbreaking admission
Carlos Alcaraz's inner circle that inspired French Open win after heartbreaking admission Carlos Alcaraz retained his French Open title by beating Jannik Sinner in a five-set epic in Paris on Sunday, with the Spaniard's team instrumental in his success French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz has thrived thanks to the support of his family, friends and colleagues (Image: Getty Images ) Tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz took his career to the next level following a remarkable comeback victory over Jannik Sinner to successfully defend his French Open title. Sunday's triumph wasn't just a solo achievement, however, but also a testament to the dedicated team behind the young star. Alcaraz found himself at an emotional juncture earlier this year and was contemplating taking time off after struggling for form. His resilience shone through as he recovered from two sets down to claim a 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(2) victory against Sinner. "I will [listen to] my close people and [when] my team have things to say to me, and that's all that matters," he said in April amid mounting pressures. Clearly, his strategy to concentrate on the counsel of his nearest and dearest has paid dividends, which was evident in the 22-year-old's impressive return to the pinnacle of tennis this weekend. Who is Carlos Alcaraz's agent? Albert Molina took Alcaraz under his wing after persuading his parents when the tennis prodigy was just 12. And he often treats the five-time major winner as if he were his own son. Their bond was beautifully depicted in the 2025 Netflix docuseries 'My Way'. And it demonstrated that while the mentor-protege connection can be demanding at times, it is also immensely rewarding. "I tried to explain to him that it might not be the best idea to go to Ibiza for three or four days on holiday when he had Queen's the following week and then Wimbledon," said Molina in one scene. He was also shown reprimanding his client after Alcaraz arrived late for a sponsorship event. Article continues below Alcaraz's agent, Albert Molina, discovered the youngster when he was just 11 (Image: Getty Images ) "That day I got very angry with him, but not because of punctuality," he continued. "It bothered me not because of being late. For me, it was a lack of respect towards other people, and that's what I cannot tolerate with Carlos. It doesn't matter if you're No. 1 in the world. Nobody has to wait for you, Carlos." He further emphasised the personal sacrifices he makes for Alcaraz's career, including missing out on time with his family. That includes going long periods without seeing his wife, 16-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter. Molina also highlighted that he can't spend as much time as he'd like with his elderly parents and often spends his birthday, which coincides with Wimbledon, alone. However, his connections within the tennis community were particularly crucial in securing a star coach to oversee Alcaraz's development. Who is Carlos Alcaraz's coach? Former world No. 1 Juan Carlos Ferrero has been working with the player for six years (Image: Getty Images ) The coaching influence of Juan Carlos Ferrero has been paramount, beginning his mentorship with Alcaraz at just 16. It was agent Molina who persuaded the ex-world No. 1 to observe the young talent at a Futures tournament, leading to a partnership that has only grown stronger. "I think his strength is keeping believing all the time until the last ball is gone. And he tries and tries," said Ferrero after Alcaraz's second French Open title on Sunday. "It was a thing [when] he was Love-40 in the fourth, this 5-3 [game], and he looked at me and still made [a motion to] me like this with the racquet, like saying, 'I'm still here,' saying, 'Vamos.' "I'm not going to say that I was believing that he was able to recover from that 5-3, Love-40. But one more time with Carlos, everything is possible, and he did it again. Amazing [achievement]." But Alcaraz has more figures behind the scenes helping to keep him on the path to greatness. Coach Samuel Lopez and physio Fran Rubio are newer additions to his team, while fitness guru Juanjo Moreno and personal trainer Alberto Lledo have worked with him since 2018 and 2020, respectively. Who are Carlos Alcaraz's parents? Alcaraz's dad was once his coach and mentor (Image: Getty Images ) Carlos Alcaraz grew up in a family where tennis was a familiar pursuit; his father, a passionate player in his younger years, had to give up the sport due to financial constraints. Meanwhile, mother Virginia made sacrifices and worked hard as a sales assistant at IKEA to help fund her son's dream. "I loved tennis since the beginning," he told Sports Illustrated in 2022. "I mean my father bought me my first racket, and the first time that I played tennis, I fell in love." Having Carlos Sr as a coach at Real Sociedad Club de Campo de Murcia proved advantageous for Alcaraz's rise in tennis. Alcaraz's grandfather, Carlos Alcaraz Lerma, occasionally attends his matches, showcasing the player's deep gratitude for his family's role in his success. "For me, it's amazing to have you here supporting me," he said following his triumphant 2024 French Open campaign. "Since I was a little kid, as I said many times, I was running from school to put the TV on to watch this tournament on the TV, now I am lifting the trophy in front of all of you." Does Carlos Alcaraz have siblings? Alvaro Alcaraz, Carlos' brother, often accompanies his younger sibling on tour (Image: Getty Images ) Article continues below Alcaraz has two younger brothers and one elder sibling, who often travels with him on tour. Alvaro, who is often seen lending a hand as Alcaraz's hitting partner, seems to share an exceptionally close bond with his pioneering brother. "I have my brother here as well," the five-time major champion said in an address to Alvaro following a match at the 2023 Cincinnati Open. "It's great to have you here, supporting me every day, to make me be a better person every day, learning from you as well, so thank you very much for being with me."
Daily Mirror
36 minutes ago
- Daily Mirror
7 Premier League transfers that should happen this week including Arsenal swoop
The Club World Cup has sparked a number of early transfers and Manchester City and Chelsea are set to be particularly busy forming their squad for the tournament in the United States Premier League clubs have already been very busy in the transfer window, which will - for the first time ever - open and close twice this summer. Due to the revamped Club World Cup, which begins on June 15, the window opened early on June 1 and will close on June 10. It will then open again on June 16, before closing for the second time on September 1. A number of big moves have already been completed, with Manchester United notably spending £62.5million to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Liverpool have also signed Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen for £29.5m as a replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold after he made the move to Real Madrid. Chelsea have strengthened their attack with the £30m addition of Liam Delap. Plenty more deals could be concluded before the window shuts for the first time but the clock is ticking down. Chelsea and Manchester City in particular will hope to see deals get over the line in time for their trips to the US. Mirror Football has taken a look at seven transfers that may be completed in the coming days. Triple Man City swoop Manchester City are yet to make any signings so far this summer, but deals for three players could be wrapped up soon. Pep Guardiola's team don't want a repeat of last season's results and hope to revitalise their squad. AC Milan star Tijjani Reijnders is set to join in a £46.3m deal, having confirmed that a move is imminent while away on international duty with the Netherlands. "The medical? I couldn't wait to do it," he told Gazzetta. "The plan is to take part at the Club World Cup with City. I'm really excited about that. Doing that means I'll get to know my new team-mates soon." City have also agreed terms to sign Lyon star Rayan Cherki and Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, with both deals set to cost around £35m. The latter is also said to have undergone a medical, while Cherki's Nations League duties finished on Sunday as he helped secure France's third-place finish. Speaking last week, Cherki confirmed a deal was pending. "It's getting done," he said. "But you already know my answer, everybody knows. But there's still a game to play. Now we have to enjoy and give everything, but after it will be done." Kepa to Arsenal Kepa Arrizabalaga is on the verge of joining Arsenal in a cut-price deal. The Spaniard spent last season on loan at Bournemouth from Chelsea and has a £5m release clause in his contract. The goalkeeper, who joined the Blues for £72m in 2018, signed a new deal at Stamford Bridge 12 months ago before joining the Cherries. That contract saw the introduction of a release clause as he took a pay-cut. Kepa is keen to join Mikel Arteta's team to battle for his place against first-choice option David Raya. Chelsea want two players for Club World Cup Enzo Maresca's team are heading to the United States for the Club World Cup and could yet see deals get over the line. The west London side are closing in on the £15m signing of Mike Maignan from AC Milan and want the Frenchman to play in the competition. The Serie A side had wanted £25m for the goalkeeper who is out of contract next summer. Personal terms are believed to already be agreed between player and club ahead of the move. Chelsea also want to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jamie Gittens. The 20-year-old winger is said to have agreed a seven-year deal with the Blues. A bid of £29.5m has been tabled, though it is some way short of Gittens' £50m release clause. The ex-Manchester City academy star has three years remaining on his contract, but the funds could help for Dortmund's activity in time for their own Club World Cup campaign. Bellingham to Dortmund Borussia Dortmund are moving to sign Jobe Bellingham from newly-promoted Premier League side Sunderland. A £31m deal has been agreed to see the 19-year-old join the side where his older brother, Jude, made his name. Bellingham has been named in England's European under-21 Championship squad but could yet be released to play in the Club World Cup, if a deal is confirmed in time. Sunderland are set to receive £26.96m up front with a further £4.2m available in add-ons as Bellingham signs a five-year deal.
Daily Mirror
an hour ago
- Daily Mirror
Inside Carlos Alcaraz's inner circle who he turned to before French Open triumph
Carlos Alcaraz secured his second French Open after winning a five-set classic against Jannik Sinner, and the Spaniard was quick to thank his team in his post-match interview World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz added a new chapter to his growing legacy as he overcame Jannik Sinner to retain his French Open title. But that victory was also a testament to the dedicated team behind him that's helped push the younger on to great things. The win was especially meaningful for Alcaraz, who had previously considered taking a break from tennis after a tough spell earlier in the year. Despite facing criticism following a series of challenging results in March and April, Alcaraz made a stunning comeback from two sets down to triumph over Sinner 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(2). "I will [listen to] my close people and [when] my team have things to say to me, and that's all that matters," said Alcaraz back in April amid a series of external pressures. And that focus on his inner circle has clearly paid dividends, with the 22-year-old reaping the rewards of shutting out the noise and relying on those closest to him. Who manages Carlos Alcaraz? Alcaraz's manager, Albert Molina, has been by his side since persuading his parents to work together when he was just 12, often treating the five-time major winner as if he were his own child. Their bond was laid bare in the 2025 Netflix docuseries 'My Way', which highlighted how their relationship can sometimes be challenging. In one exchange, Molina expressed concerns to Alcaraz about his scheduling choices: "I tried to explain to him that it might not be the best idea to go to Ibiza for three or four days on vacation when he had Queen's the following week and then Wimbledon." He was also seen chastising his charge for being late to a sponsor's event "That day I got very angry with him, but not because of punctuality. It bothered me not because of being late. "For me, it was a lack of respect towards other people and that's what I cannot tolerate with Carlos. It doesn't matter if you're No. 1 in the world. Nobody has to wait for you, Carlos." Molina emphasised the personal sacrifices he makes, missing time with his own family, which includes his wife, a 16-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter. He also isn't able to be there for his elderly parents as much as he'd like and often spends his birthday, which coincides with Wimbledon, alone. Beyond personal sacrifices, Molina highlighted his role in building a coaching team to propel Alcaraz to tennis stardom, leveraging his connections to secure a top-class mentor. And the agent's commitment and industry insights have evidently been instrumental in Alcaraz's ascent. Who coaches Carlos Alcaraz? No coaching figure has been as influential to Alcaraz's rise as Juan Carlos Ferrero, who started working with him when he was just 16. It was agent Molina who convinced the former world No. 1 to come watch the prospect in a Futures tournament and get him on board, and the pair haven't looked back since. "I think his strength is keeping believing all the time until the last ball is gone. And he tries and tries," said a proud Ferrero after Sunday's comeback victory. "It was a thing [when] he was Love-40 in the fourth, this 5-3 [game], and he looked at me and still made [a motion to] me like this with the racquet, like saying, 'I'm still here,' saying, 'Vamos.' "I'm not going to say that I was believing that he was able to recover from that 5-3, Love-40. But one more time with Carlos, everything is possible, and he did it again. Amazing [achievement]." Who are Carlos Alcaraz's parents? Alcaraz credits his parents for his early love of tennis and told Sports Illustrated in 2022: "I loved tennis since the beginning. I mean my father bought me my first racket, and the first time that I played tennis, I fell in love." His grandfather, Carlos Alcaraz Lerma, also occasionally attends his matches, and Alcaraz's appreciation for his family's support is evident. In a touching tribute after his 2024 French Open win, Alcaraz praised his humble beginnings and the unwavering support of his family, thanking his parents for their dedication. "For me, it's amazing to have you here supporting me," he said in his post-match interview. "Since I was a little kid, as I said many times, I was running from school to put the TV on to watch this tournament on the TV, now I am lifting the trophy in front of all of you." Does Carlos Alcaraz have siblings? Indeed, Alcaraz isn't fighting his battles alone; his brother Alvaro is not only his hitting partner but also a pillar of support. And it was following a loss at the 2023 Cincinnati Open that Alcaraz voiced gratitude for his brother's influence. "I have my brother here as well," he said. "It's great to have you here, supporting me every day, to make me be a better person every day, learning from you as well, so thank you very much for being with me."
