Carlos Alcaraz has achieved yet another landmark in his storied career by winning the 2025 French Open. After an intense battle over five thrilling hours, he staged a dramatic comeback against Jannik Sinner, clinching the title with a final score of 4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6. This victory not only marked Alcaraz’s second consecutive title at Roland Garros but also added a prestigious trophy to his growing collection of Grand Slam wins, bringing his total to five major titles.
A Glance at Alcaraz’s Impressive Achievements
Triumph at an Early Age
At just 22 years old, Alcaraz joins an elite group as the third-youngest male player to secure five Grand Slam titles, following in the footsteps of legends Bjorn Borg and Rafael Nadal. This victory not only enhances his reputation but also underscores his status as one of the brightest stars in tennis today.
Rewarding Victory
For his remarkable performance, Alcaraz took home a staggering €2.55 million in prize money (approximately $2.9 million), pushing his career earnings to $44.7 million. This impressive feat places him seventh on the all-time earnings list, surpassing the great Pete Sampras, while Sinner earned $1.45 million, bringing his total to $41.5 million.
The Rivalry that Stole the Show
Both Alcaraz and Sinner entered the tournament as heavily favored contenders for the men’s title. Together, they have now dominated the last six Grand Slam events, solidifying their positions as the up-and-coming stars following the legendary era of the Big Three: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
Financial Powerhouses of Tennis
In 2024, both players emerged as the highest-paid tennis athletes, including prize money, endorsements, and appearance fees. Sinner ranked No. 43 in Sportico’s highest-paid athletes list with earnings of $52.3 million, while Alcaraz was at No. 87 with $40.3 million. This financial success is unparalleled in the sport, as no other tennis players broke into the top 100.
Tribute to the King of Clay
The 2025 French Open kicked off with a heartfelt tribute to the recently retired Rafael Nadal, affectionately known as the "King of Clay." Alcaraz, often seen as Nadal’s protege, is quickly becoming the heir to his legacy. His growing popularity among sponsors is evidenced by a lucrative deal with Nike that was revamped in 2023, alongside partnerships with esteemed brands like LVMH, Rolex, BMW, Babolat, Calvin Klein, and ISDIN sunscreen.
Sinner’s Challenges and Endurance
Despite having spent 52 consecutive weeks at the top of the world rankings, Sinner faced challenges off the court that led to a three-month suspension. Last August, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) revealed positive tests for the banned anabolic steroid clostebol, which were deemed without fault on Sinner’s part. His clarification—that he had been inadvertently tainted by a treatment from his physiotherapist—was accepted, but the situation prompted an appeal from WADA, aiming for a lengthier ban. Ultimately, they reached a compliance agreement that resulted in a three-month suspension.
Sponsorships Stand Strong
Sinner, balancing setbacks with remarkable resilience, continues to thrive with more than ten endorsement partners standing steadfast by his side. His roster includes notable brands like Nike, Lavazza, Head, Rolex, De Cecco, and L’Oreal, showcasing confidence from sponsors even amidst controversy.
Conclusion
As the dust settles on the 2025 French Open, the tennis world watches with bated breath. Carlos Alcaraz, with his stellar performance and mounting accolades, promises to shape the tennis narrative for years to come. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner proves that resilience can sometimes shine even in the face of adversity. Both athletes symbolize a promising future for the sport, one that fans and critics alike will eagerly follow.
For further insights into the finances of sports stars, explore more on Sportico’s highest-paid athletes.
