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Jannik Sinner's heartbreaking seven-word admission after Carlos Alcaraz wins Fench Open
Jannik Sinner's heartbreaking seven-word admission after Carlos Alcaraz wins Fench Open
Carlos Alcaraz won the French Open in the most dramatic fashion possible, saving three championship points against Jannik Sinner before securing a historic victory
Jannik Sinner was beaten in the longest French Open final ever
(Image: GETTY )
A devastated Jannik Sinner conceded, "it's easier to play than talk now," following his heart-wrenching loss in what many are calling the most extraordinary French Open final ever witnessed. The Italian prodigy missed out on three championship points before Carlos Alcaraz mounted a stunning comeback to claim victory in a nail-biting fashion.
The match ended with a fifth-set tiebreak where Alcaraz emerged victorious, concluding an unforgettable 4-6 6-7 6-4 7-6 7-6 battle.
The match was one for the ages, forever etched in the annals of tennis history, as fans across the globe relived its intensity. The final took five hours and 29 minutes to crown a champion, marking it as the lengthiest final at Roland-Garros and the second-most extended in the Open era.
An emotional Sinner, while accepting his runner-up accolade, delivered a poignant speech.
He began with praise for Alcaraz: "First of all, Carlos, congrats again. An amazing performance, amazing battle, amazing everything for you and your team. Amazing job. I'm very happy for you and you deserve it.", reports the Express.
Struggling to express himself, Sinner acknowledged the difficulty he faced speaking after such an intense match: "It's easier to play than talking now. My team, thank you so much for putting myself in this position. We tried our best today, we gave everything we had."
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He reflected on the journey that led him to this cherished moment, even in defeat: "Some time ago, we would have loved to be here. Still an amazing tournament even though it's very, very difficult now, but it's okay. Thanks so much to all the ball kids, you do an amazing job and make life so much easier on court.
"It's a big privilege for us players to be here. For me, it's a very special place and many great things I have achieved, even though I'm still happy with this one. I won't sleep tonight very well, but it's okay.
"The organisation, for everything, thanks so much for making this event such an honour. You make life easier for all of us so thank you."
Turning to the audience, Sinner expressed his gratitude: "Obviously the support has been amazing throughout the couple of weeks. You are amazing. Again, thank you and see you guys next year again."
Alcaraz, in his victory remarks, graciously acknowledged Sinner's efforts: "It is amazing the level you have," he commended. "Congratulations for an amazing tournament to you and your team. I know the hard work you put in. I know how hard you are chasing every tournament.
"I am sure you will be champion many, many times and it is a privilege to share the court with you and making history with you."
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In a heartfelt conclusion, Alcaraz added, "I'm just really happy to be able to make history with you in this tournament, in other tournaments, you are a huge inspiration for everyone and myself. Good luck and all the best for what is coming."