Jannik Sinner failed to defend the US Open crown. The Italian reached the final but failed to impressive Carlos Alcaraz in four sets. However, the 24-year-old left new York with lessons that may shape the next stage of his career.
Sinner displayed unusual flashes of frustration during his clash against Alcaraz, a rare sight from one of the calmest and collected competitors on the circuit.
Despite the disappointment after losing at a hard-court Major for the first time in 28 matches, Jannik carried himself with dignity afterward. The four-time Major champion acknowledged his rival's triumph without diminishing it.
Jannik Sinner in his U.S. Open press conference:
“I'm a very, very solid, you know, baseliner.
I'm a very strong hitter. I'm a good player, you know…” 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/P0mTCOjdea— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 7, 2025
What stood out even more for Andrea Petkovic and others was the Italian's self-reflection. Sinner admitted he had become too predictable against such a strong rival.
He signaled a desire to bring greater variety and flexibility to his game in the upcoming duels against the Spaniard. That acknowledgment could prove to be the turning point in his pursuit of titles in the future.
Analyzing the final, Petkovic viewed Jannik's mindset as a sign of maturity and opportunity. The German sees the Italian's defeat not as a setback but rather the spark that will make him extend his already impressive arsenal and become even more dangerous.
With his talent, work ethic and willingness to adapt, the San Candido native looks ready to take the lessons from Flushing Meadows and turn them into new strengths.
Jannik Sinner & Carlos Alcaraz, US Open 2025© Stream screenshot
While he already competes at an incredible level, the best version of Jannik might still be on the horizon. It may sound scary for other rivals, but Alcaraz is already eager to seek further improvements and get ready for their next encounters.
"You rarely see Jannik express any emotion. However, he shot balls in the air twice in frustration and even threw his racket in the US Open final. It was a gentle throw, as if not to hurt it, but unusual for Jannik.
These are signs that his energy was not at 100%. But, like a perfect gentleman, he did not say anything to the press to not spoil Carlos's triumph. He did, however, indicate that he thought he had become too predictable, while Carlos has many game plans and variations up his sleeve.
Isn't it scary to think that Jannik will probably become a better tennis player after his defeat in the final, when you hear him talk about it?" Andrea Petkovic said.
