When you’re a tennis champion, you expect to be remembered for your shots, titles, and records, not for a name mix-up on live television. But that’s exactly what happened when Aryna Sabalenka accidentally called Carlos Alcaraz by his rival’s name, “Jannik,” during an appearance on The Today Show. And of course, Alcaraz couldn’t resist taking a playful jab at her later.
Fresh off her US Open victory over Amanda Anisimova, Sabalenka was chatting about her love-hate relationship with social media when she made the gaffe. While describing her TikTok routines, she casually said she had one to do with “Jann...” before catching herself: “I mean Carlos.” The crowd laughed, Alcaraz pretended to look offended, and then brushed it off with pure charm: “It’s nine in the morning. Don’t worry. It’s all good.”
© Getty ImagesThe timing of the mistake made it even more ironic. Just days earlier, Alcaraz had outlasted Jannik Sinner in a thrilling US Open final to not only secure his second crown in New York but also cement his status as the world’s No. 1. He’s now the second-youngest man in history to collect six major singles titles, sitting just behind the legendary Bjorn Borg.
Alcaraz’s Cheeky Revenge
If you thought the moment ended there, think again. Sabalenka later posted a photo on Instagram, proudly holding her US Open trophy with the caption: “Just a proud mom showing off her baby on TV.” Cue Alcaraz, who swooped in with a cheeky comment that instantly lit up the tennis world: “What’s the name of your baby???”
The playful jab, of course, referenced her slip-up where she almost introduced him as Jannik instead of Carlos. Fans loved the banter, seeing it as proof of the fun camaraderie between two of tennis’s fiercest competitors.
© Getty ImagesWhile the mix-up stole the headlines, both players reflected on what their wins meant. Sabalenka described holding the trophy again as “insane” and admitted she’s still processing her back-to-back triumphs. “I enjoyed my journey here at the US Open, and [I’m] just super happy to hold this baby again,” she said.
Alcaraz, meanwhile, spoke about the energy that comes from competing at the top: “Having someone that you have to improve for makes you better. We push each other to the limit every time. That rivalry is special: splitting Grand Slams and fighting for great things.”
© Getty ImagesA New Look for the New Champ
Of course, Alcaraz, being Alcaraz, didn’t just celebrate with trophies and interviews. He decided to add a twist of flair, posting a mysterious video with aluminum foil wrapped around his head and the caption: “To be continued.”
Fans speculated wildly, and he soon revealed his latest bold move, which is a fresh blonde hairstyle. It was another reminder that while Alcaraz takes his tennis seriously, he never forgets to keep things fun, fresh, and unpredictable.
© Getty ImagesThis exchange between Alcaraz and Sabalenka highlights the changing face of tennis, where the sport’s biggest stars aren’t afraid to show personality, joke around, and share their journeys beyond the court.
Both are dominant forces in their fields, collecting trophies and rewriting records, yet they also understand the importance of keeping things relatable and human. After all, champions aren’t just remembered for their victories; they’re remembered for their personalities, too.
