But on the eve of the year’s second major, it feels like the balance of power within tennis has shifted again. Sinner’s return has almost emboldened Alcaraz, taken the weight off his shoulders and enabled him to play freely. Like all great rivals, they push each other to be better.

French Open, the year's second major, kicks off on Sunday. Here are the top five storylines to monitor at Roland-Garros.

World number one Jannik Sinner, making his return to Grand Slam action following a doping suspension, was placed in a loaded top half of the French Open draw on Thursday alongside Novak Djokovic and last year's runner-up Alexander Zverev.

He is drawn in the same half as 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic and 2024 runner-up Alexander Zverev. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Carlos Alcaraz is clearly the favorite for the French Open. Top-ranked Jannik Sinner is back from his doping ban though and building himself back up to full strength day by day.