Sometimes the Grass Really is Greener

With a remarkable turnaround from his devastating loss to Carlos Alcaraz in the French Open, Jannik Sinner won their rematch in the Wimbledon Championship, solidifying what is emerging as one of the great rivalries in sports. The rivalry is not just notable because the two of them have raised the level of tennis, it’s notable because they’re good friends and treat each other with extreme kindness and respect. It’s not the first time this has happened in tennis, but Sinner and Alcaraz are proof that ferocious winners can also be incredibly gracious people. And we really need that reminder in today’s cultural and political climate. After losing the match, Alcaraz said of the rivalry, “It’s becoming better and better. I think it’s great for us, and it is great for tennis.” It’s great beyond tennis, too.

+ While the men’s tennis game has two clear leaders, the women’s side is refreshingly wide open. Iga Swiatek became the eighth consecutive first-time women’s champion at Wimbledon. And she did it in decisive fashion, beating Amanda Anisimova 6-0, 6-0.

+ In unrelated (in every way) sports news: Trump Steals Soccer Champions’ Spotlight, Gets Booed by Fans.