Mats Wilander went “a bit overboard” in his praise of Carlos Alcaraz at the French Open, according to Serbian media. The 22-year-old faced off with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner during Sunday’s final at Roland Garros, besting the Italian over the course of five sets to secure back-to-back titles in the tournament.

Seven-time Grand Slam winner Wilander, who achieved three titles of his own at Roland Garros, was quick to praise Alcaraz in his endeavours. Speaking on TNT Sports, the 60-year-old said: “I’ve watched Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal play some incredible finals, but none come close to Sunday’s at Roland Garros. I thought it was impossible for anyone to play at that pace. It’s not human.”

He added: “The two of them are the two best athletes that the human race currently has, and it just so happened that they are both tennis players. I feel proud and honoured to have played this sport, and I hope that I have inspired the generations after me that have inspired these guys. I’m rarely speechless, but this was a truly incredible day.”

However, Sportal took issue with the Swedish legend’s analysis of the game, claiming in a headline: “This time, however, Wilander went a bit overboard in his eulogies.” It’s a claim that many tennis fans would agree with, given Alcaraz and Sinner’s careers are not yet comparable to Federer and Nadal’s.

For context, Alcaraz has five Grand Slams to his name, while 23-year-old Sinner has just three. Meanwhile, King of Clay Nadal won 22 Grand Slams before retiring at the end of 2024, 14 of which came at the French Open. Swiss legend Federer, meanwhile, won 20 Grand Slams during his incredible career.

Speaking after his victory at the Court Philippe-Chatrier, Alcaraz remained humble as he showered Sinner with praise for his efforts during Sunday’s final. He said: “I want to start with Jannik, it is amazing the level you have.

“Congratulations for an amazing tournament, to you, your team. I know the hard work you put in every day, it is huge. I know how hard you are chasing this tournament, you’re going to be champion not once, but many times.

“It’s a privilege to share a court with you in every tournament, making history with you. I’m just really happy to be able to make history with you in this tournament and other tournaments. You are a huge inspiration for the young kids, for everyone, for myself as well, I have to say thank you for being such a great inspiration.”