The Wimbledon winner and this year’s runner-up at SW19, the world No.1 and No.2, faced off again in another final at the Cincinnati Open, but it ended prematurely
Jannik Sinner was left devastated and on the verge of tears as the Cincinnati Open final was brought to an end after just 23 minutes – with the world No.1 forced to retire.
Sinner looked out of sorts from the word go as he faced Carlos Alcaraz in a repeat of this year’s Wimbledon and French Open finals. The Italian was broken to love in the first game, and things went from bad to worse.
Sinner sent a number of errors across the court and was walking gingerly between points. In the first changeover, while he trailed 3-0, he put a bag of ice on his head and clearly looked to have a problem.
He was broken for the third time to go 5-0 down and duly called the trainer to the court. After having a chat with them, Sinner apologised and said he could not continue. The Italian looked devastated as he buried his head in his hands, while the umpire announced that he had retired due to “illness”.
The world No. 2 looked concerned for his rival as they embraced after Sinner’s retirement was announced. The Spaniard – winning in Cincinnati for the first time – also went over to Sinner’s bench for a brief chat before the trophy ceremony, and then wrote “sorry Jannik” on the camera lens.
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Addressing the crowd, Sinner said: “Usually I start with the opponent but today I have to start with you guys. I’m super, super sorry to disappoint you.
“From yesterday I didn’t feel great. I thought I would improve during the night. It came up worse. I tried to come out and make it at least a small match but I couldn’t handle more. I’m very very sorry for all of you. I know some of you on Monday maybe had to work or do something else, so I’m very, very sorry.
“And of course, congrats to Carlos. Another title. Not the way you wanted to win but it’s amazing what kind of season you’re producing. You and your whole team are doing amazing. Keep it up. I wish you only all the best for the US Open and the rest of the season.”
Speaking after collecting the trophy, Alcaraz said: “This is not the way I want to win matches and trophies. I’ve got to say sorry. I understand how you feel right now.
“I can’t say anything you don’t know already, I say many times you are truly a champion. I’m pretty sure from this situation, you’re going to come back better and even stronger. You always do and that’s what true champions do.”