Incredible Grand Slam stat shows that Carlos Alcaraz follows in Rafa Nadal’s footsteps

Carlos Alcaraz beat world No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the final of the French Open on Sunday, taking the 22-year-old’s Grand Slam haul to five titles. But that barely does justice to the drama that played out at the Court Philippe-Chatrier.

After losing both of the first two sets, Alcaraz faced three championship points against Sinner in the third. The Spaniard managed to hold out and embarked on an astonishing comeback, winning 4-6, 6-7 (4), 6-4, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (10-2) after five hours and 29 minutes of grueling competition.

Speaking after the triumph, Alcaraz said: “I wanted to start with Jannik. It is amazing the level you have, congratulations for an amazing two weeks, an amazing tournament. I know the hard work you put in every day.

“You’re going to be champion here many, many times. It’s a privilege to share the court with you."

But the defining image of the day will be of Alcaraz, who lay flat-put on the clay after completing the most unlikely of comebacks. It was his fifth Grand Slam victory and he won it at the exact same age as his compatriot, Rafael Nadal.

Incredibly Carlos Alcaraz and Rafa Nadal were both aged 22 years, 1 month and 3 days when they clinched their fifth Grand Slam. Alcaraz wins the French Open for a second consecutive year, reinforcing his status as the best clay-court player in the world.

Defeated finalist Sinner paid tribute to Alcaraz: “First of all, Carlos, congrats. Again, an amazing performance, amazing battle. To you and your team, amazing job, I’m very happy for you, and you deserve it.”

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