Over the previous six decades, Tony Roche has seen tennis legends rise and reign. The legendary Aussie believes the sport is witnessing the birth of another golden era, with Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as the leading stars.
Reflecting on their stunning dominance they have produced over the previous two seasons, Roche recognizes qualities that remind him of the trio who defined the 21st century - Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.
The veteran praised the Italian and the Spaniard, showcasing the level worthy of the game's highest standards. Their shotmaking, athleticism and competitive fire have distanced themselves from all the rivals.
Thus, they have created a two-man rivalry that has pulled them well ahead of the rest of the field, having won all eight Major titles in 2024 and 2025. Roche also highlighted their poise, humility and professionalism expected of future pillars of the sport.
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Roche sees their ceiling as extraordinary. With Carlos' variety and Jannik's precision, they have forged the rivalry that carries them toward constant evolution and improvements no one can follow.
Per Tony, the two young guns are capable of chasing down the achievements provided by Federer, Nadal and Djokovic - once thought impossible to approach. However, the praise comes with a grounded reminder!
Talent alone will not replicate the unprecedented longevity of the Big 3. Their era was built on resilience, consistency and bodies that carried nearly two decades at the top without significant interruptions - injuries aside.
For Alcaraz and Sinner to aim the realm of 20 Major titles, they must protect their health and pace their seasons wisely to survive the grind of the modern calendar.
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Records and GOAT stories aside, Roche senses that tennis is in exceptional hands, with two young leaders already inspiring the next generation. If their trajectory continues, the future may be even brighter than the past.
As we already said, they have shared the last eight Major titles. Carlos stands as the second-youngest winner of six Major titles, while Jannik comes from an incredible season that saw him contesting all four Major finals.
"Carlos and Jannik are exceptional players. The tennis they play, and the manner in which they conduct themselves on and off the court, I think that's tremendous. They can inspire a generation.
I can see them above Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. They have huge shoes to fill, but they have already shown what they are capable of. If they can take care of themselves and avoid injuries, then anything is possible.
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However, tennis can be tough. The longevity that the Big 3 had shown would not be easy to match," Tony Roche said.
