Carlos Alcaraz Praises Jannik Sinner After Epic 5-Set Match in Roland-Garros Final

Carlos Alcaraz is once again a champion at Roland-Garros after a historic five-set match against Jannik Sinner in the French Open Final on Sunday.

After the epic battle with Sinner, Alcaraz had nothing but praise for his rival.

"To you, your team, I know the hard work you're putting in every day. It is huge," Alcaraz said. "Honestly, I know how hard you were chasing this tournament, or every tournament. You're going to be a champion not once, but many, many times. It's a privilege to share the court with you in every tournament and make history with you."

Sinner was on the brink of victory after taking the first two sets, but Alcaraz battled from behind and eventually seemed to be the one in control, even if he didn't have the lead.

After hours of long rallies, tie breakers and more, Alcaraz completed the comeback to win the French Open Final 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(2).

It was the longest final ever at Roland-Garros and the second-longest of the Open Era at five and a half hours. While it was the 12th meeting between Alcaraz and Sinner, it was the first time they had ever met in a Grand Slam final—and it likely won't be the last.

Just like the rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, there's plenty of competitiveness as well as a healthy respect for one another in the Alcaraz-Sinner rivalry. After battling with Sinner for more than five hours, Alcaraz had the utmost respect for him, and he knows the two will meet at the highest stage again soon.

Alcaraz, 22, secured his fifth Grand Slam title with Sunday's win. The only event missing from his resume is the Australian Open, where he reached the quarterfinal this year.

Sinner, 23, has wins at both the Australian Open and the US Open, but is still looking for wins at the French Open and Wimbledon to complete the career Grand Slam.

The next Grand Slam event for the two young stars is Wimbledon at the end of the month. After Sunday's meeting, fans would likely have no complaints if Alcaraz and Sinner found themselves in the final in London as well.