Carlos Alcaraz defeated world number one Jannik Sinner to win the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia title in Rome on Sunday, May 18. The 22-year-old Spaniard delivered a commanding performance, securing a 7-6(5), 6-1 victory in a match that showcased his dominance on clay and ended Sinner’s remarkable 26-match winning streak.
The first set was a tightly contested affair, with both players trading powerful groundstrokes and showcasing their athleticism. Alcaraz, known for his relentless energy and versatile shot-making, pushed Sinner to a tiebreak. After a gripping battle, Alcaraz edged out the Italian 7-5 in the tiebreak, capitalizing on a crucial error from Sinner to take the lead. The crowd at the Foro Italico was electric, sensing the momentum shifting toward the young Spaniard.
In the second set, Alcaraz elevated his game to another level. Sinner, who was competing in his first tournament since a controversial ban, appeared to struggle with fatigue and could not match Alcaraz’s intensity. The Spaniard broke Sinnerâs serve early and maintained his advantage, racing to a 6-1 finish. Alcarazâs precision and aggressive play left Sinner with few answers, as the world number one managed only one game in the set.
This victory marks Alcarazâs seventh ATP Masters 1000 title and his first in Rome, adding to his growing legacy as one of tennisâs brightest stars. At just 22, Alcaraz now boasts 19 career titles and 40 top-10 wins, with an impressive 15-1 record on clay in 2025. His triumph in Rome also updates his head-to-head record against Sinner to 7-4, underscoring his ability to challenge the sportâs elite.
Alcarazâs performance was a statement of his dominance on clay, with many calling him the best clay-courter in the world. The win snapped Sinnerâs unbeaten run, which had been intact since October 2024, and marked the first time the Italian had lost in 2025. Despite the defeat, Sinnerâs resilience in his return to competitive play was notable, though he appeared to lack the sharpness that defined his earlier performances.
The Rome crowd, passionate and vocal, celebrated Alcarazâs victory as he lifted the trophy, his smile reflecting the joy of conquering one of tennisâs most prestigious tournaments. Fans and analysts alike took to social media to praise Alcarazâs âdownright incredibleâ achievements, noting his ability to deliver under pressure against a formidable opponent like Sinner.