Jannik Sinner Offers a Measured Response to Carlos Alcaraz’s Buzzcut

Jannik Sinner has shared his perspective on Carlos Alcaraz’s new haircut, a buzzed look that has generated considerable discussion. Sinner, who is competing in the 2025 US Open, offered a neutral view on the change. “No, [I wouldn’t want one myself], but honestly I think everything suits him,” Sinner said following his first-round victory against Vit Kopriva, where he won 6-1, 6-1, 6-2. He added that the hair would grow quickly and that Alcaraz’s appearance looked good regardless. While others, including fans and player Frances Tiafoe, commented on the new look, Sinner maintained a balanced approach. Sinner and Alcaraz are both through to the second round, which raises the possibility of another meeting in a Grand Slam. The prospect of a third successive Grand Slam final between them is possible at Flushing Meadows. Their rivalry began during the 2022 US Open when Alcaraz won a five-set quarterfinal against Sinner. Alcaraz currently leads their Lexus ATP Head2Head matchup 9–5. Speaking about the 2022 encounter, Sinner noted that it was a moment where both players were still learning about each other and figuring out what to expect. “It’s the same now… I feel like when we were very, very young, it was a kind of match where you just go on court and just hit. Now I feel like we have to prepare tactically, we have to prepare it also emotionally and mentally.” He highlighted how much the tactical side of their matches has changed over the last three years and how significant their matches have been in showing their peak performance. Sinner, who is focusing on his current progress, reflected on how his strategies in dealing with the demands of a Grand Slam have evolved. He will next face Alexei Popyrin, an Australian player who previously defeated Novak Djokovic and also won against Sinner in 2021.