Jannik Sinner Retires Due to Illness Before US Open

Jannik Sinner was the defending champion in Cincinnati

Jannik Sinner retired from the Cincinnati Open final against Carlos Alcaraz due to illness, just six days before he starts his US Open title defense. Sinner, the world number one, struggled from the beginning and fell behind 5-0 after 23 minutes on a hot day. He received medical attention and apologized to the umpire and officials, expressing regret for disappointing the fans.

Alcaraz, the Spanish world number two, consoled Sinner on the court and expressed sympathy for his opponent's situation. Sinner, visibly upset, explained to the crowd that he had been feeling unwell since the previous day and couldn't continue the match. Alcaraz acknowledged Sinner's resilience and assured him that he would bounce back stronger.

Sinner's withdrawal handed Alcaraz his first Cincinnati title and seventh victory of the season. Despite the circumstances, Alcaraz acknowledged that winning in such a manner was not ideal. Sinner, Alcaraz, and women's finalist Iga Swiatek are scheduled to participate in the US Open mixed doubles, although Sinner may not partner with Katerina Siniakova as planned.

Sinner, who had been on a 26-match winning streak on hard courts, can find solace in the fact that his setback was due to illness rather than injury. He will retain his world number one ranking, but Alcaraz is closing in and poses a significant challenge for the US Open title. The two players have a competitive history, with Alcaraz emerging victorious in this instance due to Sinner's physical limitations during the match.