With just under two days to go, the fresh 2026 season is nearly here. As we look forward, which duel excites you the most? Below are several player matchups that have never happened before.
Fonseca vs Alcaraz
A clash between a hugely popular rising star and a current hotshot! Alcaraz needs no introduction — his presence guarantees thrilling matches; meanwhile, the Brazilian crowd favorite has matured this season, transforming from a newcomer into a two-time champion, fulfilling much of his high potential.


Such a contest is sure to draw big crowds. Fonseca idolizes Federer, while Alcaraz looks up to Nadal; their age difference is just a few years. Could tennis be on the verge of creating a new “Fedal” rivalry? They recently faced off in an exhibition match, and it’s likely we’ll see many more such encounters in the years ahead.
Djokovic vs Monfils
Throughout his long career, Djokovic has competed against many distinctive players, like early Safin and later Kyrgios and Shelton. If he faces a player who once held the title of France’s top player near the end of his career, how will he approach Monfils, who suffered over 20 consecutive defeats to him?


Shelton vs Kyrgios
Both are distinctive personalities; Kyrgios, who once clashed with Djokovic, has since reconciled with the veteran. Shelton’s loss to Djokovic at the US Open, followed by Djokovic hanging up on him, remains vivid in memory. Shelton has not shown much respect to Djokovic since, suggesting lingering feelings. A match between these two would surely generate plenty of buzz.
Draper vs Zverev
Zverev remains in the year-end top three this season, and if not for injuries, Draper would also be comfortably in the top ten. Despite their high rankings, these two have never met, making the first clash between the UK and Germany’s leading players from these European tennis powerhouses highly anticipated.


Sinner vs Fonseca
Like the matchup against Alcaraz, Fonseca versus Sinner promises an exciting youthful storyline. If we look beyond Alcaraz and Sinner to find a third force, much like Djokovic was beyond Federer and Nadal, the younger and highly popular Fonseca is undoubtedly an excellent candidate.

Monfils vs Fils
Two generations of France’s top black players, both displaying a wild beauty unique to black athletes on court — one rising, the other nearing retirement. If they don’t meet soon, time may run out.
Among these matchups, which one are you most looking forward to?(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Luo Cheng Qiye)