Jannik Sinner defeated Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets to win the Monte Carlo Masters for the first time on Sunday, reclaiming the world number one ranking from his Spanish rival.
Sinner secured a 7-6(7/5), 6-3 victory in a high-quality final, clinching his third ATP Masters 1000 title of the year following triumphs at Indian Wells and Miami, completing a dominant run often referred to as the “Sunshine Double.”
The 24-year-old Italian extended his winning streak to 17 matches and became only the third player after Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal to win four consecutive ATP Masters 1000 titles, having also lifted the Paris Masters at the end of last season.
“We came here trying to get as many matches as possible and build confidence for upcoming tournaments,” Sinner said after the match. “Getting back to world No.1 means a lot, and winning on this surface is very special for me.”
The match, played in breezy conditions, saw both players struggle early with consistency. Alcaraz took an initial 2-0 lead in the opening set, but Sinner quickly responded, breaking back to level the contest.
The first set remained tightly contested, with Alcaraz saving multiple break points before Sinner edged the tie-break after the Spaniard double-faulted on set point.
Alcaraz, who had been on a 17-match winning streak on clay dating back to last season, broke early in the second set and moved 3-1 ahead. However, Sinner raised his level, winning five consecutive games to seal the match and the title.
“I had my chances but didn’t take them,” Alcaraz said. “In the important moments, he was better.”
Sinner’s victory marks a significant milestone in his career, highlighting his growing dominance across surfaces as he transitions from hard courts to clay ahead of the European season.
The Italian hinted he may skip the Madrid Open to focus on preparations for the French Open, where he was runner-up last year after losing to Alcaraz in a dramatic final.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, said he plans to continue his clay campaign at the Barcelona Open, provided he remains injury-free, expressing confidence in his physical condition compared to last season.
The win reinforces Sinner’s status as a leading contender for upcoming Grand Slam titles as the clay season intensifies.