"I’m definitely not at the level of Carlos, that’s for sure. I’m still trying": Jannik Sinner downplays being on level of Alcaraz

Jannik Sinner admitted he is trying not to get carried away after booking his place in the Madrid Open final, following a straight-sets victory over Arthur Fils. The Italian, who can now claim his first Masters 1000 title in the Spanish capital, was keen to focus on the present rather than look too far ahead.

“I don’t know. First, I’m happy about today,” Sinner said at the Madrid Open. “Tomorrow is a relaxed day and I don’t want to think too much about the final ahead. Of course, I’m very happy to play my first final here, it means a lot to me. It has been an amazing tournament again. Whatever happens on Sunday, in any case, it has been a great tournament.”

A notable feature of Sinner’s run this week has been his increased use of variety, particularly his drop shot, which has proved effective in key moments.

“It’s definitely a part of my game I’m trying to improve. I try to use it at the right time,” he explained. “Here it’s a bit more difficult because the ball flies more, but at the moment I’m very happy with how I’m using it. Also from the backhand side, I try to mix it up well in important moments, and it has been quite efficient.”

While comparisons have been drawn with Carlos Alcaraz, Sinner was quick to downplay any suggestion he is operating at the same level in that department. “It’s a part of my game I’m trying to improve, of course. But I’m definitely not at the level of Carlos, that’s for sure. I’m still trying. It’s good for my game to mix things up.”

After a demanding stretch in which he has consistently gone deep into tournaments, Sinner acknowledged the physical toll, but believes the occasion helps carry him through.

“I’m trying to recover as much as possible, especially with sleep. Last night was very good, I slept a lot and felt quite fresh this morning,” he said. “I’ve played a lot in the last one and a half months. Going very deep in tournaments is a good sign. Of course, at the same time you get a bit more tired, but when you play big matches, semi-finals, quarter-finals, finals, there is also adrenaline that helps.”

With the Rome Masters just around the corner, recovery remains a priority. “Between here and Rome I’ll try to recover as much as possible, and then we’ll see.”

Sinner has also impressed with his composure under pressure, repeatedly delivering in clutch moments throughout the tournament. His approach, however, remains instinctive. “I like to play with my gut feeling, what I feel in that moment, and I just try to go for it,” he said. “There’s no real key. I’d rather go for it and miss than wait for the opponent to miss. I’ve always been like this.”

Handling the crowd is another aspect of the modern game, and while others, such as Novak Djokovic, have developed specific techniques, Sinner prefers a simpler mindset. “I think everyone is different. Novak handled it very, very well, probably the best. For me, I don’t have a specific technique. I’m just happy to be part of the match,” he explained. “People come to see good tennis, and sometimes they’re not against you, they just want to see more tennis, so I understand that. I try to stay calm in tough and important moments. That’s just how I am.”

He also acknowledged the positive side of crowd support, particularly when playing on home soil. “When I play in Italy, it means a lot to me, you feel like you have an extra shot. But honestly, even here, the atmosphere has been very fair towards me, and I really appreciate that.”

Facing Fils, who like Sinner had been unbeaten on clay this season prior to their meeting, did not add any extra pressure in his mind. “No, not really. Every tournament is different, every situation is different,” he said. “The first set today was a bit windy, then the conditions settled. He’s playing incredible tennis, especially on this surface. He’s very physical, and he deserves everything he’s achieved.”

Sinner also reflected on Fils’ journey back from injury, noting both the challenges and potential benefits of time away from the tour. “When you have an injury, you don’t wish it on anyone. There’s a lot of work behind coming back,” he said. “It’s hard to take a break when you’re playing well and trying to improve. But when you’re injured, you focus on getting back step by step. Mentally, I think he’s in a good place and he’s doing well.”

He added: “When you’re young and have serious injuries, it’s not easy, you have to do everything right, even off the court. Sometimes, a break can help you reset, but it’s a very different situation when it’s forced by injury.” For now, Sinner’s focus remains firmly on recovery and maintaining his level, as he prepares for the biggest match of his Madrid campaign.