Jannik Sinner added an intriguing chapter to his growing rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz. The two dominant figures of men's tennis shared a practice sessions ahead of the ATP Finals in Turin.
While the sight of two best players in the world training with each other is rare, the Italian saw it as the perfect way to prepare for the year-ending elite event.
For Jannik, the hitting session with Carlos was challenging and enjoyable at the same time. The four-time Major winner emphasized how much value he finds in facing someone who constantly pushes him to higher levels.
The home favorite noted that training sessions differ from actual matches. They offer room to experiment with new ideas and shots without the pressure of scoreboard and competition.
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On the other hand, hitting with a player of Carlos' caliber provided exactly the level of intensity he looked for before the start of the premium ATP event. The world's best players enjoyed every minute of their practice session.
They went for their shots and wrapped up the training with embraces and a selfie. In Turin, you face the rival from the top in every match. That's why Sinner wanted to surround himself with top-tier opposition.
For him, it's the key to keeping his edge sharp. The Italian is motivated to repeat his last year's run in front of the home fans and bring the title home without losing a match.
He has to achieve that to challenge Alcaraz for the year-end no. 1 spot, although the Spaniard keeps the calculations in his hands following Sunday's victory over Alex de Minaur in straight sets.
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Jannik will kick off his campaign against Felix Auger-Aliassime on Monday night, in the repeat of the Paris Masters final.
"Well, it was definitely beneficial. You know, in practice, everything is very different compared to a match. In a tournament like this, where you have to immediately face the best in the world, it's also important to train with high intensity and at a high level.
Obviously, there's no one better than Carlos to train with. But in practice, you do not hit the shots you hit in a match. You try new things, you see if they work or not, but it's more of a personal feeling.
But, I repeat, whether it's a real match or a training session, it's very enjoyable to play with Carlos," Jannik Sinner said.
