Monday Match Analysis Steve Flink on Alcaraz, Sinner, Djokovic & Zverev at Australian Open 2026 | Monday Match Analysis
Feb 5, 2026
Steve Flink, Hall of Fame tennis writer known for deep match analysis, breaks down Alcaraz’s title run and whether he can pull away from Jannik Sinner. Short takes on Sinner’s long-match troubles and heat sensitivity. Thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s resilience and physical limits at 38. Close look at Alexander Zverev’s near-breakthrough and what he missed.
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Alcaraz Calmed Down Tactics In Final
- Flink recounts how Alcaraz switched to a more conservative, percentage approach during the Djokovic final to prolong rallies.
- He credits Alcaraz's on-court intelligence and ability to decide when to be flashy vs. steady.
Player Instincts Overrule Matchday Coaching
- Flink says early coaching built Alcaraz's foundations but the player now often makes match-time decisions himself.
- He likens the dynamic to past greats who execute under pressure regardless of coaching input.
Train In Heat To Avoid Cramping
- Try relocating preseason training to hotter climates to better acclimatize for Australian Open conditions.
- Flink specifically suggests Sinner consider a move similar to Andy Murray's South Florida training switch.