Particle.news
Download on the App Store
13 ARTICLES
·
3w ago

Alcaraz Tops Sinner in Sold-Out Incheon Exhibition Ahead of Australian Open

The unofficial showcase served as lighthearted preparation with no ranking stakes or head‑to‑head effect.

Jannik Sinner of Italy (3rd from R, front row in the stands) watches as a young Korean player hits a shot to Carlos Alcaraz of Spain during an exhibition tennis match at Inspire Arena in Incheon, west of Seoul, on Jan. 10, 2026. (Yonhap)
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz beat No. 2 Jannik Sinner 7-5, 7-6 (8-6) at Inspire Arena before roughly 12,000 spectators.
  • Both players emphasized the event’s fan-first format and called it valuable preparation for Melbourne, which begins on January 18.
  • During the second set, Sinner handed his racket to a young boy from the front row, who rallied with Alcaraz and won a point.
  • The exhibition result carries no ATP points and does not alter their official head-to-head record.
  • Italian reports suggested appearance fees exceeding $2 million per player, a figure not disclosed by Korean organizers, as Alcaraz now targets a first Australian Open crown to complete a Career Grand Slam.