Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have been the players to beat since the beginning of 2024. The two young stars have forged a massive domination, having missed only one title in 2024 and 2025 when they both enter the draw.
Rafael Nadal turned his attention to the two men currently shaping the future of men's tennis. The Mallorcan understands dominance almost better than anyone, admiring their rise and achievements.
However, the 22-time Major winner also pointed out the imbalance their duopoly has created. Their level, consistency and ability to win even on off-days have separated them from the rest of the field.
To paint the picture, world no. 3 Jannik Sinner is closer to the bottom of the ATP rankings than the rivals at the top. For Nadal, the concern is not about their excellence, as they can hardly play any better.
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The lack of players capable of consistently pushing them is what Nadal does not like. The legend believes the Tour benefits most when several contenders can collide deep in the biggest tournaments, creating unpredictability and elevating the sport.
Right now, Alcaraz and Sinner are miles above everybody else. They embraced six notable finals in 2025 and left all the rivals behind after collecting over 11,000 ATP points.
They walk into most events as near-automatic finalists, and their dominance will unlikely fade away in 2026. Rafa mentioned Joao Fonseca, the youngest player in the top-25.
While praising him, he does not see the Brazilian as someone capable of challenging them due to his age and lack of experience. In the future, surely, but not now.
The King of clay hopes someone from the current generation can rise quickly, disrupt the establishment order and inject fresh tension into the closing rounds of the biggest stages.
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Nadal sent a clear message. He calls the leading duo spectacular but wishes for more crowded battle for the ATP throne. It's hard to picture that at the moment, but no one knows what the future brings.
"I think Carlos and Jannik need someone to push them in the upcoming years. In my opinion, Joao Fonseca is too young for that. They have set themselves apart from everyone else, and they need someone to challenge them a bit.
They can beat anyone and arrange the title match. For us who observe them from the outside, there's a feeling they would reach every final even when they play poorly," Rafael Nadal said.
