Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner (Images via Getty Images)Jannik Sinner has received a major vote of confidence ahead of the US Open 2026. Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick believes the Italian is the player to beat in New York, even if defending champion Carlos Alcaraz returns from injury in time for the tournament.Sinner has enjoyed a remarkable season and continued his dominance by defending his Wimbledon title. Meanwhile, Alcaraz has been out of action since suffering a wrist injury during the Barcelona Open in April. Although the Spaniard has resumed practice, Roddick feels the lack of competitive matches could make it difficult for him to challenge Sinner immediately.Andy Roddick explains why Jannik Sinner has the edge over Carlos AlcarazAndy Roddick shared his views on the latest episode of his Served with Andy Roddick podcast. The former US Open champion said Sinner should be considered the leading contender for the final Grand Slam of the season. According to him, Alcaraz’s talent is unquestionable, but returning from a long injury break without enough match practice is never easy.Roddick explained that Sinner deserves to be the favorite because he has been consistently performing at the highest level throughout the season. He added that even if Alcaraz returns before the US Open, it is unrealistic to expect him to instantly reach his best level after spending months away from competitive tennis. In his view, match fitness and rhythm are just as important as natural ability when it comes to winning Grand Slam titles.Sinner has backed up those expectations with outstanding performances in 2026. The Italian won the first five Masters 1000 tournaments of the year. He completed the Career Golden Masters after lifting the Italian Open trophy. His incredible run briefly stumbled at the French Open. Where extreme heat played a role in a surprising second-round defeat despite him holding a commanding lead and serving for the match.However, Sinner quickly bounced back by defending his Wimbledon title.Alcaraz, meanwhile, has experienced a season filled with both success and setbacks. He started 2026 by winning the Australian Open to complete the Career Grand Slam. The Spaniard then extended his winning streak by claiming the Qatar Open title before reaching the semifinals at Indian Wells.His momentum slowed after an early exit at the Miami Open, although he recovered with a runner-up finish at the Monte-Carlo Masters. Soon after, his campaign at the Barcelona Open ended because of a wrist injury, forcing him to miss several important tournaments.The 23-year-old has already confirmed that he will skip the Canadian Open, the first Masters 1000 event of the summer hardcourt season. Even so, he has recently shared training photos and videos, suggesting that his return is getting closer.Alcaraz will have extra motivation once he returns because he is defending titles at both the Cincinnati Open and the US Open. Last year, he defeated Sinner in the finals of both tournaments.