Carlos Alcaraz staged a breathtaking comeback to retain his French Open crown, battling back from two sets down and saving three championship points to defeat world number one Jannik Sinner in a marathon five-set thriller.

In what turned out to be the longest French Open final in history, the 22-year-old Spaniard triumphed 4-6, 6-7 (4-7), 6-4, 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (10-2) after five hours and 29 minutes of relentless drama on Court Philippe Chatrier.

Just when it seemed his title defense was over, with Sinner serving for the match at 5-3 in the fourth set, Alcaraz showed extraordinary resilience. Refusing to surrender, he clawed his way back into contention, eventually forcing a fifth-set super tiebreak where he dominated.

The atmosphere was electric as Alcaraz delivered perhaps the most heroic performance of his career to clinch his fifth Grand Slam title. The win also marked the first time he has come back from two sets down in a major tournament.

In his on-court speech, Alcaraz praised his opponent: “Jannik, your level is incredible. It's always an honor to share the court with you, especially in matches like this that make history.”

Sinner, playing in just his second event following a three-month suspension for doping violations, came agonizingly close to his maiden French Open title and a third consecutive Grand Slam victory.

“It’s easier to play than to speak right now,” said the 23-year-old Italian with a wry smile. “I’m proud of this run, even if I won’t sleep well tonight.”

Alcaraz’s victory places him in elite company, becoming the first man since Novak Djokovic in 2019 to win a major after saving match points in the final.

Source: BBC

SMS/