In a dramatic finale in Turin, Italy's Jannik Sinner successfully defended his ATP Finals title, overcoming his great rival Carlos Alcaraz in a straight-sets victory that was punctuated by a moment of pure fortune.
Sinner triumphed 7-6, 7-5 to become the first player in the tournament's history to win it two years consecutively without dropping a single set. The match, played on Sunday 16 November 2025, was a nail-biting affair that showcased the incredible talent of the sport's two leading figures.
The Turning Point: A Sky-High Shank
The contest's momentum shifted decisively in the second set. After Alcaraz had managed to break Sinner's serve for the first time in the entire tournament, the Italian was fighting to get back on level terms.
The crucial moment arrived on a break point. Alcaraz delivered a body serve, forcing Sinner into an awkward position. The Italian completely shanked his return, sending the ball looping high into the air. Against all odds, the mishit landed perfectly inside the baseline. Sinner seized the opportunity, pushing Alcaraz back before expertly finishing the point with a delicate forehand drop shot.
Displaying impeccable sportsmanship, Sinner immediately held his hands up to Alcaraz to apologise for the lucky shot. This break back proved to be the catalyst for Sinner's victory, as Alcaraz's challenge subsequently faded.
Champions Reflect on a Gruelling Season
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Sinner acknowledged the high stakes and the role fortune played. "The level was very, very high, especially the first set," he said. "The tiebreak was a key moment and I got lucky when I broke him back, which gives you a bit of confidence and belief."
The victory also served as a measure of revenge for Sinner, who had lost to Alcaraz in the US Open final just two months prior. This marked only his second win over the 22-year-old Spaniard since the start of the previous season.
The two stars shared a warm embrace at the net, congratulating each other on remarkably successful years. Alcaraz secured the Roland Garros and US Open titles and finished the season as the world number one. Sinner's own incredible haul included the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and now the ATP Finals.
Looking Ahead to Future Battles
Alcaraz, who refused to blame a right hamstring issue for his defeat, was full of praise for his opponent during the trophy ceremony. He issued a friendly warning, setting the stage for an enthralling rivalry in the coming year.
"I just played against someone that has not lost a match on an indoor court in two years, so that shows how great a player you are," Alcaraz stated. "You don't have many [losses], but after every loss you come back stronger. It's been a great year for you. It's time to rest... hope you're gonna be ready for next year because I will be ready for more finals against you!"
Sinner reciprocated the respect, thanking Alcaraz for providing the "purpose" to improve his own game, cementing the notion that their competition is driving both players to new heights.
