Paul Annacone has weighed in on Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner ahead of a possible clash between the two at Indian Wells.

Currently, Annacone is coaching Taylor Fritz, and he’s previously worked with Roger Federer as well.

Alcaraz and Sinner might face off at Indian Wells, and ahead of that potential matchup, Annacone spoke about their growing rivalry on tour.

What Paul Annacone said about Jannik Sinner & Carlos Alcaraz

Sinner is currently sitting just one spot behind world No. 3 Alcaraz in the ATP rankings after picking up where he left off in 2023 by winning all three events he’s played this year.

The pair have already met twice this season, splitting wins with each match going to three sets. It’s becoming one of the most entertaining rivalries on tour.

This could be a huge matchup if it happens because both players are trying to reclaim the No. 1 ranking from Novak Djokovic by season’s end. Only one can hold that spot, and every match between them feels even more important now.

Paul Annacone believes Carlos Alcaraz has the edge over Jannik Sinner

Speaking to Tennis Channel, Annacone shared his thoughts: “Up until Sinner lost to Novak [Djokovic, at the Australian Open], I would have argued that maybe he is the one pulling away because he was playing less but winning more.

“So in fairness it’s a little early to say Alcaraz is pulling away. We’re probably a major or two away from saying that.”

He continued: “Sinner needs to be true to his MO and stick with what he does best while still building a little bit of the things he’s been talking about. That will be challenging, though.

“My own opinion is that if the men play their absolute best, Alcaraz is just better. He does more things well, and more dangerously.”

How Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz compare ahead of their Indian Wells meeting

Annacone’s assessment is reflected in both their recent form and the overall head-to-head record.

Alcaraz has already picked up titles at the Australian Open and Qatar Open this year, with Sinner exiting in the semifinals and quarterfinals of those tournaments.

The pair have played 16 times in total, with Alcaraz leading their head-to-head 10-6.

Alcaraz has won seven of his eight Grand Slam finals, while Sinner has a 4-2 record in major championship matches.

Sinner could complete his own career Grand Slam by winning the French Open later this year.

The two players have shared dominance over men’s tennis for a while now. Between them, they’ve claimed each of the last nine Grand Slam titles, splitting those evenly over the past two years.

Although Alcaraz has started this season more quickly, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Sinner return to form soon enough.

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