This article is part of our New York Court Classics series, a special feature produced by The Athletic that revisits classic U.S. Open performances, iconic athletes, and timeless moments. As we look ahead to the U.S. Open 2025, we reflect on one of the most transformative matches in recent tennis history.
At Flushing Meadows, New York, moments in tennis that seem monumental often lead to unexpected outcomes. In the U.S. Open finals of 2000 and 2001, when Marat Safin and Lleyton Hewitt decisively defeated Pete Sampras, it felt as though they would dominate the sport for years to come. However, with the emergence of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, the landscape of men’s tennis transformed entirely. While Safin and Hewitt each secured just one more Grand Slam title, the Big Three collectively amassed an astounding 66 titles, with Djokovic still competing at the highest level.
In a twist of fate, after Federer surpassed Sampras’ record of 14 Grand Slam singles titles, a then-20-year-old Juan Martin del Potro stunned the tennis world by beating Federer in the 2009 U.S. Open final. Del Potro faced numerous challenges, including four wrist surgeries, yet remarkably returned to the Grand Slam scene nine years later, only to be defeated by Djokovic once again. Another notable early success story is Tracy Austin, who won the U.S. Open at just 16 years old in 1979 and again in 1981, but injuries and a car crash curtailed her promising career.
Fast forward to recent U.S. Open history, where a match on September 7, 2022, changed the course of men’s tennis forever. At precisely 9:35 p.m., Jannik Sinner faced off against Carlos Alcaraz in a quarterfinal that would last five hours and 15 minutes, culminating in a thrilling showdown that captured the attention of tennis enthusiasts worldwide.
Both players, aged 21 and 19 respectively, did not just ignite a rivalry that would succeed the era of the Big Three; they provided a glimpse into the future of the sport. Alcaraz ultimately claimed the trophy that night, marking the beginning of a major dominance that saw him and Sinner winning nine of the last twelve Grand Slam titles, with Djokovic claiming the other three. Their rivalry continued to flourish, with a five-hour and 29-minute grueling match at the French Open, where Alcaraz saved three championship points, and Sinner claiming victory in the Wimbledon final shortly after.
On that unforgettable night at the U.S. Open, the crowd witnessed history unfold. The final score of 6-3, 6-7(7), 6-7(0), 7-5, 6-3 in favor of Alcaraz barely encapsulated the intensity of the match. Alcaraz reflected on the experience, stating, “Thanks to that match, I grew up a lot,” while Sinner remarked on the bond that began to form between them, signaling the start of their burgeoning rivalry.
Before their epic encounter, Sinner and Alcaraz had crossed paths three times, with each meeting leaving fans eager for more. Their first match at the Paris Masters in October 2021 showcased their potential. Sinner, after a tough loss, expressed hope for future encounters, while Alcaraz eagerly agreed. Their rivalry was further established with matches at Wimbledon and the Croatia Open, making the anticipation for their U.S. Open quarterfinal palpable.
As they entered the tournament, Alcaraz, who had rocketed to No. 4 in the world by winning prestigious titles like the Miami Open, was a rising star ready to disrupt the established order of tennis. Meanwhile, Sinner’s steady ascent placed him at No. 13 in the rankings, showcasing his talent and determination.
The U.S. Open quarterfinal was characterized by a purity of play, with both athletes displaying raw talent and a relentless spirit. Their rivalry evolved from simple competition to a tactical battle, where each player made adjustments and learned from their encounters. Their matches became a showcase of dazzling shot-making and strategic prowess, captivating audiences and forcing the rest of the tour to adapt.
The 2022 match was a thrilling display of skill, featuring unforgettable rallies and remarkable shots. Alcaraz stunned spectators with an incredible backhand that showcased his creativity and athleticism. Despite Sinner’s impressive performance, including a tiebreak victory in the third set, Alcaraz’s tenacity and belief in his game propelled him to victory. Post-match, Alcaraz emphasized the importance of self-belief and resilience, stating, “I just believed in myself and believed in my game.”
As we look forward to the upcoming U.S. Open, the rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz is set to continue, with fans eagerly anticipating a potential rematch. Their journey highlights a new era in men's tennis, one where both players can coexist at the top and challenge each other in thrilling contests. The evolution of their rivalry is not just a testament to their individual talents but also a reflection of the shifting dynamics in the sport.
In conclusion, the match between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz at the 2022 U.S. Open stands as a pivotal moment in tennis history, marking the rise of a new generation. As they continue to compete at the highest levels, fans can expect an exhilarating future filled with unforgettable matches and rivalries that will shape the sport for years to come.
