Don Carlos Owns Stage, Claims 6th Slam

SO maybe the first U.S. Open final between young, elite rivals Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner wasn't as long, riveting and dramatic as their matchup to decide the championship at the French Open.

- HOWARD FENDRICH

Perhaps it wasn't as seemingly meaningful and plot-driven as their showdown for the Wimbledon trophy.

Still, what the No. 2-seeded Alcaraz's 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 victory over No. 1 Sinner on Sunday did do was significant.

Alcaraz reasserted his superiority over the defending champion, wrested away the top spot in the ATP rankings and left tennis fans eager for whenever their next clash will come.

They are the first two men in the sport's history to face each other in three consecutive Grand Slam finals within a single season.

"I'm seeing you more than my family," Alcaraz joked during the trophy ceremony, eliciting a grin from Sinner.