Given this history, is there any question as to why fans might respond like this to Alcaraz’s statement on the Sinner controversy? “If you had supported Jannik as a friend you would have gained universal respect but unfortunately you missed the opportunity. Sasha Zverev did much better and he got many new supporters today,” wrote one fan on the Spaniard’s recent post.
“I do not have enough information and I can’t make up my mind about it. Jannik is an exceptional guy I know even off the court, and I’ve always had a good relationship with him and that’s not going to change,” Zverev said when asked about the Jannik Sinner controversy. It was probably a good enough response for Sinner fans.
“You acted like a Jannik’s fake friend. He’s innocent, there’s a clear decision, you would say something different,” was another angry response from a Sinner fan. Interestingly, at the BNP Paribas Open where this can of worms was first opened, Sinner had faced Alcaraz in the semis.
Before that match, the Spaniard had high words of praise for the Italian, “He’s the best tennis player in the world right now, without a doubt… He’s playing unbelievable, no losses this year. I really enjoy watching him play. It’s going to be a really difficult match. It’s going to be a big challenge for me to see what my level is facing him.”
via Reuters
“I am so disappointed in you, Carlos,” yelled a disgruntled fan at Carlitos. On so many levels, what you said about Sinner today is incorrect. Why are you discussing his situation if you are unaware of it? He was exonerated since he filed an instant appeal and was granted relief.
It was rumoured that until Miami, not even Sinner’s coaches knew about the predicament. They then promptly filed an appeal with the ITIA, which is why things moved quickly. Alcaraz’s remarks were unacceptable to this fan: “Your remarks regarding sinner were shameful.” And you would be a friend—what a strange idea of friendship you have.”
When bringing up their tennis history, a netizen fan said, “You can beat him on the pitch sometimes, but our Jannik is unreachable as a person.” Jannik, go. (Verified)
Sinner and Alcaraz play at the same level and are fierce competitors. Alcaraz currently leads their head-to-head record, 5-4, and their most recent meeting occurred in the French Open semifinal. The Prince of Clay and the defending Australian Open champion played a tense game. Ultimately, the Spanish celebrity triumphed.
However, it’s similar to any sports rivalry in that both teams want to give it their all against their most formidable opponent. Fans of Jannik Sinner, however, feel that Alcaraz ought to have done more to help his “friend” during a trying period rather than remaining impartial.
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