We’re acting like nothing happened” – Carlos Alcaraz opens up on “weird” plane ride with arch-rival Jannik Sinner to Shanghai hours after China Open

Carlos Alcaraz recently shared the details of his plane ride from Beijing to Shanghai with arch-rival Jannik Sinner, hours after the pair’s China Open 2024 blockbuster. The Spaniard called the situation “weird” but explained how tennis players make it work.

Alcaraz and Sinner staged a thrilling battle in the final of the ATP 500 in Beijing on Wednesday, October 2. After a grueling three hours and 21 minutes of play, Alcaraz successfully dethroned the defending champion in the final tiebreak 6-7 (6), 6-4, 7-6 (3).

3.Shortly afterward, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz set out for Shanghai in tandem to begin their Masters 1000 campaigns. The adorable moment went viral on social media when the tennis players posed for a photo while in midair, surprising many spectators with their friendship following such a difficult match

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s ride together isn’t the first time tennis players have shared a private jet. It is common practice for tournament organizers to escort their finalists to the next event.

Earlier this year, Andrey Rublev and Alexei Popyrin, who featured in the Canadian Open final, traveled together to the Cincinnati Masters. Meanwhile, Sebastian Korda and Flavio Cobolli, too, made their journey to Montreal together after competing in the Citi Open final.

Speaking about this particular facet, Carlos Alcaraz emphasised his friendship off the court with Jannik Sinner in spite of their intense rivalry on the court.