"Like choosing between the Beatles and the Stones": John McEnroe compares Alcaraz and Sinner to iconic bands
ATP
John McEnroe has shared his impressions on the Roland Garros final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, and their burgeoning rivalry. The former world No. 1 compared the two players to The Beatles and The Rolling Stones and revealed the only player he'd pay a ticket to watch.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion was part of TNT Sports' television coverage of the French Open, having switched broadcasting homes. The American closely followed the tournament and the paths of Alcaraz and Sinner to the final, where the Spaniard claimed his 5th Grand Slam title in an epic match that concluded in a fifth-set tie-break.
McEnroe experienced a peculiar situation during the final's broadcast, arriving late, which even drew attention from his fellow commentators like Chris Evert, Andre Agassi, and Jim Courier. McEnroe arrived before the final began but wasn't present for the initial pre-match analysis.
However, he closely followed the 5-hour and 29-minute match between the world No. 1 and No. 2. McEnroe recently spoke in an interview with La Gazzetta Dello Sport about the differences between the two stars. "Both him (Sinner) and Alcaraz have unique elements. Carlos is the most talented young player I have ever seen hold a racket,” he stated.
“Jannik is not far behind. Alcaraz is brighter, Sinner is more consistent. I am struck by the sound of Jannik's ball: I have never heard anything like it. Carlos is the greatest gift the post-Big Three generation could give us. And he is the only tennis player I would pay a ticket for.”
McEnroe, a well-known music fan, was then asked if he would compare the players to any musical band. “It's like choosing between the Beatles and the Stones. The Stones were unpredictable but sometimes the Beatles were better. We're talking about groups that, like Jannik and Carlos in tennis, have made history."
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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