Alkaras: Paris will forever be in my heart

Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz said tonight that it is a great privilege to share the court with world number one Jannik Siner, and that Paris will always be in his heart, after defending his title at Roland Garros.

"I am truly happy to be making history together with you (Siner), in this and other tournaments. You are a great inspiration to everyone, including me. Good luck and all the best in everything that comes," Alkaras said at the beginning of his victory speech, reported the BBC.

Alcarras defended his French Open title in Paris tonight, defeating Italian Jannick Siner 4:6, 6:7 (4), 6:4, 7:6 (3), 7:6 (2).

The final on the Parisian clay lasted a record five hours and 29 minutes, and the winner received a prize of 2.550.000 euros, while Siner received half that amount.

The Spaniard saved three tied match points on his serve in the fourth set, then recorded his fifth triumph in as many Grand Slam finals.

"I want to thank my team and family for everything. I have the privilege of experiencing such great things together with you. I was lucky that a large number of people came from Murcia, from my hometown, to support me. You have given me incredible support today and during these two weeks. This trophy is yours too," added the second player in the world.

Alcarras then thanked the organizers, especially the director of Roland Garros, former world number one Amélie Mauresmo.

"And then, Paris... people, your support has been important to me since the first round. You have been incredible to me, I can't thank you enough for so much support. You have been very important to me, you will forever be in my heart. Thank you Paris, see you next year," Alkaras concluded.

Alcaraz became only the third player to defend his Roland Garros title this century. The current Olympic runner-up now has five Grand Slam titles and is undefeated in the finals of major tournaments.