Jannik Sinner has honestly admitted that he was second best to Carlos Alcaraz during Sunday's US Open final in New York.
Alcaraz got revenge for July's defeat to the same opponent, with the 22-year-old winning 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 to claim the sixth Grand Slam title of his career.
Sinner had gone into the clash hoping to keep his world No 1 ranking.
But he was blitzed by his rival at the Arthur Ashe Stadium, with Alcaraz dominant in every department as he etched his name into the history books once again.
Jannik Sinner was a shadow of his usual self during Sunday's US Open final defeat to Carlos Alcaraz
|REUTERS
Sinner, speaking after the showdown, admitted that he didn't deserve to win.
"Congrats to Carlos and your whole team. There is so much hard work behind this win today and you did better than me," he said.
"Congrats, this is a great moment.
"To my team, thank you for supporting and understanding me. For working hard.
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"We all know how much dedication we put into being on this stage today.
"It has been an incredible season - a lot of big stages and matches throughout the season.
"I am super happy to share this moment with you and my family and all the people I love.
"I tried my best today. I couldn't do anymore. Thank you for the support.
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King Carlos 👑
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 7, 2025
The Spaniard defeats Sinner in four sets to claim his second US Open trophy! pic.twitter.com/C2jBm7F178
"I would like to thank everyone who makes this place very special. Behind the scenes, I know how much work you put in. This has been an incredible run. And thank you to the ball kids.
"I can't wait to come back next year. You guys [the crowd] are amazing. Seeing a packed stadium in the early matches, you make this place so special.
"I am very happy to stand here on the court today - we all try to make it the best show.
"See you guys next year."
Alcaraz, meanwhile, showed class by hailing Sinner.
And he also left the crowd in attendance in stitches by joking he sees more of the Italian than he does his own family.
"It's unbelievable what Jannik has done throughout the whole season, a great level in every tournament," he said.
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Jannik Sinner showed class by congratulating Carlos Alcaraz on his US Open triumph
| REUTERS"I see you more than my family!
"It's great to share the court, locker room and everything with you, watching you improve.
"This tournament is incredible and it's a privilege to be a part of it. I feel at home here and feel the energy and love. You (the fans) make everything easy."