Rafael Nadal praises Jannik Sinner and Hubert Hurkacz, saying we need new champions

The season's first Masters 1000 event in Miami saw an unexpected final between Hubert Hurkacz and Jannik Sinner, both ranked outside the top-30 and without the experience at that level.

Chasing the first Masters 1000 crown for Poland, Hubert overpowered his doubles partner Jannik 7-6, 6-4 in an hour and 43 minutes and secured a notable title at 24. Thus, Hurkacz remained undefeated in Florida this year after previously winning the Delray Beach crown in January.

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With those 1000 points, the Pole passed 21 rivals on the ATP list to enter the top-16 for the first time, hoping for more of the same during the clay swing. Hubert won nine points more than the Italian, earning four breaks and playing better tennis when it mattered the most to cross the finish line first.

Asked about the Miami Open final in Monte Carlo, the 20-time Major champion Rafael Nadal praised Hurkacz and Sinner, saying they are great players and that we need more new winners in the most significant events.

"We had a very young Miami Open final, with Jannik Sinner and Hubert Hurkacz playing for the title. They are great guys, and I'm happy for Hubert. On the other hand, I feel sorry for Janiik, as I know him very well. We knew how good they are before the Miami campaign, and it's good for tennis to have different champions at big events," Rafael Nadal said.