Defending champion Jannik Sinner tearfully withdrew from the Cincinnati Open final against Carlos Alcaraz on Monday due to a sudden illness, just six days before the US Open begins. The world's top-ranked player appeared visibly unwell from the outset of the highly anticipated match, trailing 5-0 within 23 minutes under sweltering conditions.
Sinner, who had ice packs applied during an early changeover after losing his first two service games, summoned medical staff following further setbacks. After a brief consultation, the Italian apologized to officials, emotionally stating he "felt really bad" for spectators. He then shared an embrace with Alcaraz before addressing the crowd: "I'm super sorry to disappoint you. From yesterday I didn’t feel great... I couldn’t handle more."
"I can't say anything you don't know already. You will come back even stronger like you always do," Alcaraz consoled his rival post-match, adding on-camera: "Sorry Jannik."
Despite the abbreviated contest, second-ranked Alcaraz secured his seventh title this season and first Cincinnati championship. The Spaniard emphasized this wasn't his preferred path to victory. Sinner's retirement halted his 26-match hardcourt winning streak, though he retains the world No. 1 ranking heading into the US Open.
The unexpected withdrawal casts doubt on Sinner's participation in Tuesday's scheduled US Open mixed doubles event with Katerina Siniakova. Tennis analysts noted the rivals – who've split their four finals meetings this year and the past seven Grand Slams – could only potentially clash again in the Flushing Meadows final, where Sinner defends significant ranking points.
Sinner's physical struggles were evident throughout the non-competitive match, with Alcaraz dominating 21 of 29 points while committing just one unforced error to the Italian's nine. The incident underscores the intense physical demands on top players during the North American hardcourt swing.
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment on this article!