Roland-Garros 2025 isn’t done talking. While all eyes are on the highly anticipated quarterfinal between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, an unexpected tension erupted between the two young stars of world tennis. A subtle but pointed provocation from the Italian provoked an explosive response from the Spaniard, the pronouncing him “addict.” All capped off by a brief but powerful retort from Sinner that literally nailed Alcaraz’s beak…

From the draw for the main draw, this quarterfinal between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was on everyone’s lips. Two of the biggest hopes in world tennis, two explosive styles of play, and an emerging rivalry that captivates fans.

But on the eve of their confrontation, the good-natured atmosphere gave way to an unexpected verbal exchange. At a press conference, Jannik Sinner said, with a smile: “We’ll see who will keep it up physically… some need more than talent.” A remark that, without naming Alcaraz, was clearly directed at his Spanish opponent, known for her cramps in high-intensity matches.

Questioned a few hours later, Carlos Alcaraz didn’t mince his words. Visibly annoyed, he responded: “I respect Jannik, but he’s acting like a provocateur over there. He’s seeking attention, he wants to destabilize. I speak on the pitch.”

This term “addict”—in French, used in the text, because it was used during the interview with France Télévisions—quickly ignited social media. Fans are wondering: was it just a fleeting rivalry or real animosity between the two wonders?

But the tension reached its climax when a journalist reported Sinner Carlos’s words. The Italian, unperturbed, smiled and simply said: “It’s better to be addicted to winning than to complain.”

Ten words. Enough to make the press room go silent. Carlos Alcaraz, later informed of this response, reportedly remained “speechless,” according to a source close to the player. “He didn’t say anything for several minutes. He just hugged his teeth,” said a member of his entourage.

With this heightened tension worthy of the greatest tennis rivalries, the match between Alcaraz and Sinner promises to be more than just a technical confrontation. It’s now a matter of pride, ego, and reputation.

Tickets flew out in minutes, and the TV audience promises to be filmed. All eyes will be on the Philippe-Chatrier court during a quarterfinal that could go down in history.