Jannik Sinner returns to defend title as Six Kings Slam's core lineup remains intact
ATPWednesday, 29 July 2026 at 00:00
The Six Kings Slam will return to Riyadh this October with another star-studded lineup, but perhaps the most striking aspect of this year's field is not who has been added—it is how little has changed.
Organizers confirmed on Tuesday that world No. 1 Jannik Sinner will return to defend his title at the third edition of the exhibition event, joined once again by Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev and Taylor Fritz. The only change from last year's lineup sees Alex de Minaur replace Stefanos Tsitsipas, making the Australian the sole new face in a tournament that has quickly established a remarkably consistent cast.
For an exhibition that debuted only two years ago, the Six Kings Slam has already developed a clear identity. Rather than rotating through different stars every season, the event has built around the same group of elite players who have defined the ATP Tour over the past few years, with only minor adjustments as the landscape evolves.
That continuity is no coincidence. Sinner arrives as the two-time defending champion after defeating Alcaraz in both previous finals, while Djokovic, Zverev and Fritz have featured in every edition of the tournament. With De Minaur rewarded for another excellent season, the 2026 lineup reflects not only star power but also the players who have consistently performed at the highest level throughout the year.
A familiar cast returns to Riyadh
The third edition of the Six Kings Slam will take place between October 21 and 24 at the anb Arena in Riyadh as part of Riyadh Season, once again bringing together six of the ATP Tour's biggest names.
Sinner headlines the field after lifting the trophy in both previous editions. The Italian defeated Alcaraz in a thrilling three-set final in the inaugural tournament in 2024 before producing a more convincing straight-sets victory over the Spaniard in last year's championship match.
Jannik Sinner won the two editions of the Six Kings Slam - both defeating Carlos Alcaraz in the final.
Alcaraz returns seeking his first Six Kings Slam title after twice falling one step short, while 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will once again be among the headline attractions despite still searching for his first title at the exhibition.
Roland Garros champion Alexander Zverev and American No. 1 Taylor Fritz complete the group of returning players, meaning five members of the 2025 field will compete again in Riyadh.
De Minaur earns the tournament's only new invitation
The only change to the lineup comes through Alex de Minaur, who will make his Six Kings Slam debut after enjoying another impressive season on the ATP Tour.
The Australian replaces Stefanos Tsitsipas, who featured in the 2025 edition after being called up following Jack Draper's withdrawal through injury. Unlike last year, when circumstances forced a late change, De Minaur earns his place after establishing himself among the world's top players through consistent results.
His inclusion also reflects the current hierarchy of men's tennis. While Sinner, Alcaraz, Djokovic, Zverev and Fritz have become familiar faces at the event, De Minaur has steadily strengthened his credentials over the past 18 months and now receives the opportunity to compete alongside the sport's biggest stars.
Can anyone stop Sinner's dominance?
Although the tournament is classified as an exhibition, Sinner has treated it with the same intensity that has characterized his rise to world No. 1.
The Italian enters Riyadh chasing a third consecutive Six Kings Slam title after winning each of the first two editions, both times overcoming Alcaraz in the final. Those victories have established him as the player to beat whenever the event returns to Saudi Arabia.
The tournament will once again use its single-elimination format, with a third-place playoff also included, while Netflix is set to stream the matches worldwide.
With five familiar faces returning and only one new challenger entering the draw, the Six Kings Slam continues to build a recognizable identity around the players who have dominated the ATP Tour. Whether that continuity produces another Sinner triumph or finally opens the door for a new champion will be one of the main storylines when Riyadh hosts the event once again in October.
Six Kings Slam results
| Year | Champion | Runner-up | Score |
| 2024 | Jannik Sinner | Carlos Alcaraz | 6–7(5–7), 6–3, 6–3 |
| 2025 | Jannik Sinner (2) | Carlos Alcaraz | 6–2, 6–4 |
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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