Carlos Alcaraz‘s response to a question regarding Jannik Sinner‘s absence from the 2025 Indian Wells Open was not rude, but it suggested he prefers not to dwell on his rival’s situation.
Sinner is banned until May 4th after settling his case with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Ironically, the Italian’s troubles began at the 2024 Indian Wells Open, where he tested positive for the prohibited substance.
WADA appealed the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s decision to clear him despite accepting accidental contamination. However, the governing body chose to settle rather than have an appeal hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Sinner being given the option to settle caused controversy but will not change the outcome. He is set to miss tournaments like the Indian Wells Open, Miami Open, and Madrid Open, but will return in time for the Italian Open.
On paper, two-time defending champion Alcaraz’s path to a third consecutive title is clearer without Sinner. The ATP world No. 1 has won the last three hardcourt Grand Slams, establishing himself as the dominant player on that surface.
However, speaking in a press conference, Alcaraz stated that Sinner’s absence has not altered his mindset, emphasizing respect for the many other top players competing for the title.
“Well, it didn’t change at all. I mean, this tournament obviously, I mean, Jannik’s not playing, but there are a lot of the best players in the world playing here as well. I think the draw is really open, and a lot of players playing great tennis. For me, coming here to approach the tournament, it doesn’t change at all. I’m just focused on my things, myself, and I try to play good tennis here.”
Alcaraz’s perspective illustrates why he is a four-time Grand Slam champion at just 21 years old. Top players do not approach tournaments with complacency, even with high-profile names absent from the draw.
The Spaniard likely finds Sinner less intimidating than others; he was the only player to consistently defeat Sinner during his breakthrough season last year, winning all of their professional matches.
Despite the outstanding levels both Alcaraz and Sinner showcase, Alcaraz believes it will be almost impossible to replicate the rivalry that existed among Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer.
This sentiment is understandable, but both Alcaraz and the 23-year-old Sinner have many years ahead. Predicting the potential of their rivalry remains uncertain at this stage.
With Sinner absent, Alcaraz’s biggest challenge may stem from acclimating to the new surface at this year’s Indian Wells Open. After 25 years, the tournament switched to Laykold for the 2025 iteration.
Some players have noted that the new surface feels different from the slow and high-bouncing conditions of previous years, with the bounce notably altered. While Alcaraz is capable on any surface, he remarked that he could not understand the reason behind changing the surface.
