Can Carlos Alcaraz be the new GOAT of Tennis?

In an era longing for a new torchbearer, Carlos Alcaraz has emerged as the brightest spark in the tennis world. The 22-year-old Spanish sensation stunned fans with a jaw-dropping comeback victory in the French Open 2025 final, beating Jannik Sinner in a five-set thriller — a match that is already being hailed as one of the greatest in Roland Garros history.

A Battle for the Ages

Down two sets and on the brink of defeat, Alcaraz clawed his way back to win 4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6, saving three championship points in the process. The showdown lasted over five hours, making it the longest French Open final in the Open Era, surpassing the 1982 epic between Wilander and Vilas. Even legends Federer and Nadal couldn’t hold back their admiration for the performance of both finalists.

Achievements and Milestones

With this win, Alcaraz now holds five Grand Slam titles — cementing his place among the sport’s elite. He also ended Jannik Sinner’s unbeaten streak in major finals, which included back-to-back Australian Open titles and a US Open crown. Alcaraz’s fighting spirit, unmatched resilience, and flair under pressure have drawn comparisons to Nadal’s grit, Federer’s elegance, and Djokovic’s mental strength. 

Alcaraz in the elite list, where even Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic failed to emulate

Alcaraz's French Open title was the icing on the cake for the Spanish youngster, and his win has further significance because he completed an achievement that the Big Three failed to manage. Yes, he has defended his titles at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon, which is a feat not secured by legendary players like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

Federer and Djokovic failed to ever defend their French Open titles, with Nadal failing to defend a title at Wimbledon.

While Federer and Nadal have already retired, Djokovic is still playing, but the 38-year-old is unlikely to tick such a milestone off his list.

Earning praise from Anand Mahindra

Applauding his performance, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra remarked that Alcaraz had "recovered to win the championship", highlighting it as a powerful “never give up” lesson for generations.

Mahindra said, “Make a poster of this picture…It’s worth a thousand pep talks. Carlos Alcaraz at the French Open, facing three Championship match points at 0–40 of the fourth set. Recovered to win the Championship. It isn’t over till it’s over. NEVER give up." 

The Future of Tennis

As Federer and Nadal bid farewell and Djokovic nears retirement, Alcaraz is stepping into the spotlight with ease and hunger. If his current trajectory continues, tennis fans may soon be watching the rise of the next true G.O.A.T.