Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are set to face off in an exhibition match in South Korea this coming January, organisers confirmed on Monday. The match is scheduled as a precursor to the 2026 Australian Open.
Italy’s Sinner recently overtook Spain’s Alcaraz to become the world number one after claiming his first Paris Masters title on Sunday, ending Alcaraz’s hold on the top ranking. The two stars, currently regarded as the best in men’s tennis, will meet in the “Hyundai Card Super Match” on 10 January in Incheon, near Seoul.
“For domestic tennis fans, this will be the very first opportunity to see the two top-ranked players compete head-to-head,” a Hyundai press release stated, highlighting the significance of the match for South Korean audiences.
Alcaraz, who has previously voiced concerns about the demanding ATP Tour schedule, leads their head-to-head encounters 10–5. Nevertheless, Sinner will be eager to showcase his new number-one status ahead of defending his Australian Open crown in Melbourne, which kicks off on 18 January 2026.
This exhibition match will provide a unique opportunity for fans to witness a high-level contest outside the regular tour calendar, combining both competitive intensity and entertainment. Analysts expect a closely fought contest, with both players capable of delivering spectacular rallies and signature shots.
Sinner vs Alcaraz – Head-to-Head Record
| Player | Wins | Losses | Notable Titles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carlos Alcaraz | 10 | 5 | US Open 2022, Wimbledon Final 2023 |
| Jannik Sinner | 5 | 10 | Paris Masters 2025, Australian Open 2025 |
With the Australian Open just days later, this exhibition will also serve as a final tune-up for both players, allowing them to test their form and strategies in a competitive but less pressured environment. Fans in South Korea and globally will eagerly anticipate the clash between these two rising superstars.
