Carlos Alcaraz Secures Victory Over Jannik Sinner in South Korea Exhibition
Incheon, 14 January 2026 – World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz triumphed over rival Jannik Sinner in a hard-fought exhibition match in South Korea, winning 7-5, 7-6 (8) to kick off the 2026 tennis season. The Spaniard, fresh from a year-end No. 1 ranking, demonstrated his fitness and skill in preparation for the upcoming Australian Open.
Match Highlights
Alcaraz and Sinner, the top two players in men’s tennis, faced off in the Hyundai Card Super Match at the Inspire Arena. Despite the exhibition format, the match featured intense rallies and entertaining trick shots. Alcaraz edged out Sinner in both sets, with the second going to a tiebreak. The pair also engaged fans by allowing a young spectator to play a point for Sinner, highlighting the light-hearted nature of the event.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Ranking | ATP No. 1 (12,050 points) |
| Age and Height | 22 years old, 183 cm |
| Career Titles | 24 singles titles |
| Prize Money | $A18.6 million this year, $A52.2 million career total |
| Grand Slam Record | 5 titles (2 Wimbledon, 2 US Open, 1 French Open) |
| Head-to-Head vs Sinner | 10-6 in favour of Alcaraz |
Upcoming Australian Open
Alcaraz is set to compete in the Australian Open starting 18 January 2026 at Melbourne Park. As the defending champion in some contexts and a consistent top performer, he aims to complete his career Grand Slam. Sinner, the two-time defending champion, will be his main rival once again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Carlos Alcaraz’s coach?
Alcaraz is currently coached by Samuel Lopez, following his split with Juan Carlos Ferrero at the end of 2025.
What is Alcaraz’s playing style?
He is known for his aggressive baseliner style, powerful forehand, and exceptional athleticism, making him one of the most dynamic players on the ATP Tour.
How has Alcaraz performed in 2025?
In 2025, Alcaraz achieved a 71-9 record, won eight titles, and secured the year-end No. 1 ranking, including victories at the French Open and US Open.