Andre Agassi says he relates more to Jannik Sinner but loves watching Carlos Alcaraz play more: Here’s why

Andre Agassi stated that he sees himself more in Jannik Sinner and enjoys watching Carlos Alcaraz in action. The American is regarded as one of the most notable tennis stars of his era and won eight Grand Slam titles in his career.

Even though he did not explicitly mention only one player who reminded him the most of himself, Agassi shared that he saw bits and pieces of his old self in the new generation of players, more so in Jannik Sinner. He commended the Italian on his impeccable ball-striking skills and stated that he resonated with him on that front.

In an interview with Bleacher Report, he said:

“Oh, I don’t know if you’re talking mentally, emotionally, game wise, it’s honestly, the game has changed so much. Sinner has my heart from a ball striking perspective, because I always felt like that. That was me. I was a ball striker at heart, so I kind of connect to that.”

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However, he also added that there are players like Carlos Alcaraz, Tommy Paul and Holger Rune, whom he immensely enjoys watching and admires certain specific qualities of.

"But I love watching Alcaraz play. I love watching like the dynamics and athleticism of Tommy Paul. I love watching athletics, the dynamics of like Holger Rune. I just appreciate the game," added Andre Agassi.

The tennis legend even elaborated on their playing styles on a podcast appearance recently.

Andre Agassi on Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz's playing styles

Andre Agassi, during his recent appearance on the Served Podcast with Andy Roddick, broke down the stark difference in the playing styles of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner.

He described the Italian to be a more clinical player, who is constantly calculating the progression of his shots and trying to become more efficient. Whereas, the Spaniard received brownie points from the tennis legend, owing to his emotion-driven and instinctive approach to the game. He said (via ATP Tour):

"The thing that amazes me most watching Carlos play live is how little his speed diminishes [from] clay [to] grass...He’s still so raw. I hope he learns how to maximize, and we should enjoy watching him before he does, because it’s so much fun for the fans to watch how he plays the game."

"Sinner is the exact opposite, he is constantly maximizing. He’s never hit a ball he doesn’t really need to and when he does let one rip, it makes you wonder if he was forced to, what that gear would really look like."

The two players have been having a stellar season so far and will be facing each other in a blockbuster duel in the final of the French Open, battling it out for the prestigious Musketeers' trophy on June 8.

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Aatreyi Sarkar

Aatreyi Sarkar is a tennis journalist at Sportskeeda. Currently pursuing a degree in Comparative Literature from Jadavpur University and a U.S. State Department scholar at The University of Kansas, she blends her academic background with her passion for storytelling.

Aatreyi sources accurate information from social media platforms to stay updated on the latest developments and fan discussions. She strives to produce engaging, insightful, and experimental content that connects with readers, aspiring to make tennis more accessible and captivating for fans around the globe

She finds immense inspiration in Novak Djokovic, whose incredible comebacks and relentless determination motivate her to approach her work with the same passion. Roland Garros is her favorite tournament, cherished for its unique clay-court challenges and historical importance.

Though new to professional writing, Aatreyi has been an avid debater and quizzer since middle school, showcasing her analytical skills and creativity. Outside tennis, she is a passionate cricket fan, baker, and reader who enjoys exploring literature beyond academic constraints.

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