Simon believes that Alcaraz and Sinner’s abilities are comparable to those of the Big Four.
Former world number six Gilles Simon believes Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner can compete with the “Big 4” if they maintain consistency.
Alcaraz won his first grand slam championship at the US Open in 2022, becoming the youngest world number one in ATP history at 19 years, four months, and six days, before earning his first Wimbledon title in 2023.
Alcaraz defeated Daniil Medvedev to win Indian Wells in March but has since struggled with an arm injury, with his last match before Roland Garros coming in the quarterfinals of the Madrid Open on May 1.
He defeated J.J. Wolf in straight sets on Sunday, advancing to the second round of the French Open, where he will face Jesper De Jong.
Simon, speaking at the Roland-Garros eSeries by Renault competition, believes in the Spaniard’s abilities and compares him to some of the sport’s top names.
He stated, “I believe Alcaraz has the level of the top three or major four that we’ve had because he truly has a very high level.
“In other words, when his tennis is at its peak, it’s really difficult to beat him. And I envision him on the same level as Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer, even at their peak, because he possesses that quality.
“On the other hand, he is unable to maintain the same level of consistency that other guys have. But he’s young, and he’ll continue to win, improve, and raise his game.
“Perhaps he will reach the level of those players. Last year, we saw him perform admirably at Roland Garros but eventually lose because of cramps. But then he wins Wimbledon, and you think that’s it; he’s achieved the level of the big three.
“Yes, he was there for that time period, which is currently less than ten months. And I have no doubt he will be there, but it will be complicated.”
Sinner has had a successful start to 2024, winning his maiden Grand Slam at the Australian Open, followed by victories in Rotterdam and Miami.
The Italian also glided through his first round at Roland Garros, defeating Christopher Eubanks in straight sets, and will face Richard Gasquet on Monday.
“As far as I’m concerned, [Sinner’s] ranking is slightly lower than Alcaraz. However, his average level is higher than that of Alcaraz. So that’s where it gets fascinating,” Simon explained.
“So far, Jannik has demonstrated consistency for more than six months, from the end of last season until his injury at the start of the clay-court season.
“He’s been in the finals or won practically every competition in the last six months. His consistency resembles that of the Big Four.
“What’s interesting is that he lost his huge match at Indian Wells to Alcaraz, who quickly regained his level and overcame him. So that is how I see it.
