Sabalenka responds to the eternal debate between Sinner and Alcaraz: "Naturally, I prefer Jannik"

The Belarusian is put in a tight spot when asked whether she prefers Sinner or Alcaraz as a tennis player, but she doesn't shy away in her response.

Diego Jiménez Rubio | 23 Jul 2026 | 12.57
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Aryna Sabalenka chooses Sinner over Alcaraz. Photo: gettyimages
Aryna Sabalenka chooses Sinner over Alcaraz. Photo: gettyimages

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Aryna Sabalenka has been asked about one of the most recurring debates in current tennis: Jannik Sinner or Carlos Alcaraz? The world number one surprised with a very thoughtful response, explaining why she feels more identified with the Italian from a tennis perspective, although she also showered praise on the Spanish player for aspects of his game that she considers unique.

The Belarusian, a four-time Grand Slam champion, took part in the YouTube channel First&Red, where she analyzed the virtues of the two great dominators of the men's circuit. While acknowledging that her style shares many similarities with Sinner's, she ultimately admitted that it is impossible to choose between the two due to the extraordinary level both are displaying. Aryna Sabalenka's reflections are worth listening to.

Sabalenka unequivocally chooses Sinner but shows admiration for Alcaraz

She didn't hesitate when asked which player she preferred, though she initially reacted with laughter to a question she knew would spark debate. "Damn it! Why that question? Of course, I prefer Jannik because we have similar playing styles. I think both of us have a good forehand, a good backhand, and a good serve. We also have an aggressive playing style, so to speak," she stated.

The world number one explained that this identification arises from the way both players construct points, constantly seeking to take the initiative from the baseline and relying on the power of their shots to dominate exchanges.

However, the Belarusian made it clear that this doesn't mean she doesn't greatly enjoy watching Carlos Alcaraz play. In fact, she showered several praises on the Spaniard, especially highlighting his athletic ability, creativity, and the passion with which he faces every point.

"But I really like how Alcaraz moves, how he sees the court, and how he plays every ball. It's clear that Carlos genuinely enjoys playing tennis. There's not a single ball he doesn't try to reach," she commented.

Sabalenka's relationship with Alcaraz. Photo: gettyimages

For Sabalenka, one of the qualities that sets Alcaraz apart from other players is precisely that competitive attitude he maintains until the last moment of each exchange. "Alcaraz always gives his all until the end. And that, of course, is truly great," she affirmed.

The Belarusian also wanted to highlight the Spaniard's mentality of constant improvement. Despite conquering Grand Slams and quickly reaching the top of the rankings, she believes Alcaraz continues to show a great willingness to evolve. "And, of course, the fact that he's open to new things. Even though he was already at the top of the rankings, he kept changing his serve and adjusting some things. It's fantastic because he's very young and reached the top very quickly. It's nice to see how Carlos keeps improving," she explained.

Precisely this constant evolution is, in Sabalenka's opinion, one of the reasons why the Spaniard continues to expand his competitive ceiling despite all the successes achieved from a very young age.

Aryna Sabalenka says she remains impressed with what happened at Roland Garros 2025

After analyzing the strengths of both players, the world number one ended up acknowledging that the debate essentially has no answer. For her, both Sinner and Alcaraz represent the excellence of present-day tennis, and it is impossible to choose just one.

"I think it's impossible to choose just one person in this confrontation," she confessed. As an example of that rivalry, she recalled the unforgettable final of Roland Garros 2025, when Alcaraz came back from three match points down to defeat the Italian, as well as the final of Wimbledon 2025, where her preferences completely changed.

"When Alcaraz defeated Jannik at Roland Garros 2025 after saving three match points, it was incredible. But in Wimbledon 2025, I was cheering for Jannik because I really suffered for him after Roland Garros," she concluded.

The words of Aryna Sabalenka perfectly reflect the feelings of many fans. Although she personally feels more identified with Sinner's aggressive and direct tennis, she doesn't hide the admiration she has for Alcaraz's creativity, athletic ability, and competitive spirit. Two different styles, two extraordinary champions, and a rivalry that continues to shape one of the brightest eras in modern tennis.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Sabalenka responde al eterno debate entre Sinner y Alcaraz: "Naturalmente, prefiero a Jannik"