Feliciano Lopez has seen multiple generations of champions rise and fade in the previous couple of decades. When he looks at today's tennis landscape, the Madrid Open tournament director has a clear message.
Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are operating on a different level. The former world no. 12 believes the gap between the two young superstars and the rest of the ATP Tour is not only real - it is expanding.
For Lopez, the evidence is overwhelming. Their Major breakthrough, relentless improvements and the ability to adapt with surprising maturity have helped Sinner and Alcaraz create a competitive environment where everyone else is chasing shadows.
At 22 and 24, Carlos and Jannik are already outmatching most of their more experienced rivals with their technique, athleticism and tactical IQ. However, they are still providing regular upgrades to their games, turning strengths into weapons.
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Feliciano does not doubt that future champions and challenges will appear, as tennis always provides its next icons. However, in the immediate future, no one is capable of consistently threatening the reigning duo.
The rest of the field can compete in flashes and cause a couple of upsets. However, not across the physical and mental demands of two-week Major events. Carlos and Jannik have won every Major title since the start of 2024.
Their dominance will likely continue in 2026, with both players chasing numerous records and potential Career Grand Slams at such a young age. Still, Lopez strikes an optimistic tone.
Tennis is fortunate to have two young superstars with contrasting personalities and styles, both pushing the sport forward. The next big rival could emerge from Slovenia or some other country, but the present belongs to Sinner and Alcaraz.
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"The numbers speak for themselves. I do not have a crystal ball, but if you ask me today, in the short term, I do not see anyone capable of challenging them for the Major titles and the ATP throne. In three years?
Perhaps Jannik from Slovenia or Carlos from another country will emerge. Nobody knows. However, I see a huge difference between the two of them and everyone else. It's because they are too good - technically, physically, and mentally.
The difference only widens over time, because they have the ability to continually update and improve their tennis in every aspect, while others can not. This is the moment tennis is living in: it's fair to say that we are very lucky to have them both.
They are two different personalities, two great ambassadors for this sport," Feliciano Lopez said.
