BENGALURU – Jannik Sinner, once considered an explosive talent tailor-made for hardcourt tennis, has evolved into one of the most formidable players on clay, thanks to his intense focus on patience and control. As he heads into the French Open, the four-time Grand Slam champion is now widely regarded as the man to beat on the red dirt.

For a long time, the rivalry between Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz was expected to play out with Sinner dominating on faster surfaces, while Alcaraz, a renowned clay-court specialist, would hold the upper hand on clay. Alcaraz, with seven major titles to his name, remains a strong contender on the surface and is the reigning Roland Garros champion. However, Sinner upstaged Alcaraz in the Monte Carlo final earlier this month, further solidifying his credentials on clay. To add to Alcaraz's challenges, a recent wrist injury in Barcelona has disrupted his preparations for Paris.

This week, Sinner's journey continues in Madrid, where the altitude and faster conditions offer a unique challenge. The surface at this high-altitude venue quickens the pace of the game, providing another platform for the 24-year-old to demonstrate his adaptability.

"It's a very unique playing style here," Sinner said. "The high altitude and occasional wind make it tough to play, but I believe every kind of clay court can help me improve as a player."

Over the last few years, the head-to-head results between Sinner and Alcaraz have shown little to separate the two, but former player and sports psychologist Jeff Greenwald believes subtle differences are emerging. Greenwald sees a remarkable mental strength in Sinner that sets him apart.

"Sinner, even more than Alcaraz, has this unflappable demeanor that is rooted in his deep love and appreciation for the process," Greenwald told Reuters. "He's the embodiment of mastery, focusing on long-term improvement rather than short-term results."

The Art of Mastery

Sinner’s focus on mastery over individual moments has reshaped his game on clay, where his tactical discipline and ability to stay composed under pressure are becoming decisive advantages as the French Open approaches. His mental fortitude, coupled with his strategic approach, has set him apart as one of the top contenders.

However, the heightened expectations surrounding his game in the coming weeks could test Sinner in new ways. With many considering him a favourite for the title, Greenwald notes that handling these expectations will be key.

"Expectations are natural, but they can also be distractions for even the greatest players," Greenwald explained. "Most players try not to get preoccupied with them, but it's hard when your career is on the line. This is where Sinner has an edge—he didn’t develop this mindset after achieving success. It was ingrained in his training from the beginning. Whether he's seen as a favourite or not, this won't affect him. Instead, it’ll reinforce his confidence, resilience, and the joy he brings to every match."

A Battle for Legacy

If Alcaraz is fit to play, the French Open will offer another epic mental challenge for Sinner, who lost to his great rival in a thrilling title match last year. However, Sinner, with the career Grand Slam on the line, welcomes the challenge and is eager to face Alcaraz once again at Roland Garros.

"When you want to win, you want to do it by beating the best, and he’s among them," Sinner said.

As the tournament approaches, Sinner’s blend of mental toughness, focus on long-term success, and sheer determination make him a major contender for the 2026 French Open title.

-Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru, editing by Nick Mulvenney and Peter Rutherford/Reuters