Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner will meet in a blockbuster Monte Carlo Masters final on Sunday, with the world number one ranking on the line in a highly anticipated clash between the sport’s top two players.
Alcaraz secured his place in the final by defeating local wildcard Valentin Vacherot 6–4, 6–4 in Saturday’s semi-final, ending the Monegasque’s impressive run.
The Spaniard, who is aiming to defend his title, broke serve three times in a controlled performance lasting 84 minutes. The victory also marked his 10th ATP Masters 1000 final and extended his remarkable clay-court record to 26 wins from his last 27 matches.
“I think it’s the dream scenario,” Alcaraz said. “I’m fighting for a second Monte Carlo title, he’s fighting for his first. The No.1 is on the line, which makes it even more special.”
The 22-year-old currently leads Sinner 10–6 in their head-to-head record but expects another tight contest. “Against him, there is no favourite. It depends on who plays better on the day,” he added.
Earlier, Sinner booked his spot in the final with an impressive 6–1, 6–4 victory over world number three Alexander Zverev.
The Italian will be playing in his first Monte Carlo final and has now reached the finals of all three Masters 1000 events this season — a feat last achieved by Novak Djokovic in 2015.
Sinner dominated from the outset, breaking Zverev three times in the opening set before maintaining control in the second to seal victory in 82 minutes.
“I’m very happy. We came here looking for feedback on clay, and reaching the final means a lot,” Sinner said.
Sunday’s final will be the pair’s first meeting of the season and their first on clay since last year’s French Open final, where Alcaraz triumphed in a dramatic encounter.
