The tennis world was about to see another incredible match between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at the 2025 Cincinnati Open final. However, before the first set could end, the Italian was forced to retire. The reason is an illness, but the fact is now the Spaniard is the champion. With Sinner watching, Alcaraz sent a message to his biggest rival.

“As you said Jannik, this isn’t the way I want to win matches, to win a trophy. I just gotta say sorry. I know and understand how you can feel right now. All I can say… as I said many many times, you are truly a champion. I’m pretty sure from this situation you’re gonna come back better, even stronger. You always do. That’s what true champions do. You really are one. Sorry and come back stronger,” Alcaraz said after the game.

Sinner struggled for as long as the match went on, going 0-5 but he never really seemed there. The Italian couldn’t find his footing and was not as fast and crisp as he usually is. It seems like the heat had something to do with it. Sinner felt off.

Alcaraz was dominating even without playing great

When you see a 5-0 set, it’s natural to assume the player who was winning was playing the game of his life. However, this was not the case. Alcaraz was being the better player, but Sinner was making it really simple for him.

“From yesterday I didn’t feel great. I thought that I would improve during the night, but it came up worse. I tried to come out, tried to make it at least a small match, but I couldn’t handle more, so I’m very sorry,” explained Sinner after retiring from the final. It was clear he wasn’t himself, he had two double faults, and had nine unforced errors to only four winners.

Alcaraz leads head-to-head rivalry with Sinner

This win marks the ninth victory in 14 games against Sinner for Alcaraz. Sinner will remain at five for the foreseeable future. However, the Italian had won the last encounter in the 2025 Wimbledon final.

The last five games where both players faced each other have been finals. Alcaraz has won four of those. With this result, the number one spot of the ATP Ranking will be on the line during the U.S. Open.

The event in Canada is set to begin this Sunday, July 27, and will run nearly two weeks, ending on Thursday, August 7. That timeline posed a clear scheduling issue for the ATP Tour’s top stars, especially after the physical and emotional demands of Wimbledon—and with the US Open fast approaching.

After pulling out of the 2025 Canadian Open, Alcaraz, Sinner, and Djokovic are expected to return for the Cincinnati Open, scheduled from August 7 to 18. That appearance will leave them with a full week of rest before the US Open kicks off on August 24.

At the Masters 1000 event in Ohio, Sinner and Alcaraz will naturally enter as top seeds and title favorites. That status is driven not only by their ATP Rankings (currently No. 1 and No. 2, respectively), but also by recent form—having faced off in the finals of both Roland Garros and Wimbledon.

The race for No. 1 between Alcaraz and Sinner

Sinner’s decision to withdraw from Toronto won’t have a major impact on his ATP Rankings position. In 2024, he exited the tournament in the quarterfinals after losing to Andrey Rublev, earning just 200 points—hardly a critical loss for the Italian star.

Alcaraz, on the other hand, didn’t play in Canada in 2024 either, so he’s not defending any points there this year. While his absence won’t cost him, it also represents a missed opportunity to close the gap with Jannik.

The real battle will take place in Cincinnati, which explains why both stars prioritized that event, even at the expense of skipping Toronto. In 2024, Sinner captured the title in Ohio, while Alcaraz suffered a surprising exit in the Round of 32. That dynamic sets up a high-stakes scenario: Sinner will need a strong showing to maintain his lead, while Alcaraz has a golden opportunity to gain ground.

What did Alcaraz say about his Toronto withdrawal?

Carlos Alcaraz announced his decision to sit out this year’s Masters 1000 in Canada through a post on his official X account. “After many consecutive weeks of competition without rest, I will not be able to play in Toronto this year. I have small muscles issues and I need to recover physically and mentally for what comes next,” he explained. “To the tournament and to my fans in Canada I am very sorry, I will see you next year!”

[Watch Carlos Alcaraz vs Novak Djokovic online FREE in the US on Fubo]

It is the long-awaited final of the seventh ATP Masters 1000 event of the 2023 season, and as for its protagonists, there is no surprise. They were the two primary favorites to reach this stage, and they have reached it almost effortlessly. This final is a rematch of the championship that took place just a few weeks ago at Wimbledon.

On one side, we have Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning champion of the last Grand Slam and the current world number 1, who is aiming to continue his triumphant run. His opponent will be none other than Novak Djokovic, who is seeking redemption for the outcome at Wimbledon. This will be the fourth match between them; the previous encounters resulted in 2 victories for the Spaniard and 1 for the Serbian.

When will Carlos Alcaraz vs Novak Djokovic be played?

The match for the final of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will take place this Sunday, August 20 at 4:30 PM.

Carlos Alcaraz vs Novak Djokovic: Time by State in the US

ET: 4:30 PM
CT: 3:30 PM
MT: 2:30 PM
PT: 1:30 PM

How to watch Carlos Alcaraz vs Novak Djokovic

This match for the final of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic can be watched in the United States on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

[Watch Alexander Zverev vs Novak Djokovic online FREE in the US on Fubo]

It is the second semifinal of this tournament (the first was played by Carlos Alcaraz and Hubert Hurkacz), and undoubtedly the most interesting, as two strong contenders for the title are facing each other. On one hand, we have the player who has been a favorite in all the tournaments he plays for years – Novak Djokovic.

The Serbian has advanced to this stage with little to no opposition, winning all of his matches with a considerable advantage. Therefore, this could be his first truly challenging match, as he faces Zverev, who has also shown great solidity in the tournament and now aims to surprise Djokovic.

When will Alexander Zverev vs Novak Djokovic be played?

The match for the semifinal of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic take place this Saturday, August 19 at 6:00 PM.

Alexander Zverev vs Novak Djokovic: Time by State in the US

ET: 6:00 PM
CT: 5:00 PM
MT: 4:00 PM
PT: 3:00 PM

How to watch Alexander Zverev vs Novak Djokovic

This match for the semifinal of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic can be watched in the United States on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

[Watch Carlos Alcaraz vs Max Purcell online FREE in the US on Fubo]

As anticipated, Alcaraz Garfia has advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters 1000; however, his journey proved to be considerably more challenging than anticipated. His preceding two matches, against Australian Jordan Thompson and American Thomas Paul, both extended to a decisive third set.

Presently, he faces a formidable challenge in the upcoming bout against Australian Max Purcell, who has emerged as a significant revelation of the tournament. Purcell orchestrated a remarkable upset by eliminating Wawrinka in the third round and previously ousted Casper Ruud in the second round. With this achievement, he will now seek to give a new surprise.

When will Carlos Alcaraz vs Max Purcell be played?

The match for the quarterfinal of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Carlos Alcaraz and Max Purcell will take place this Friday, August 18 at TBD.

Carlos Alcaraz vs Max Purcell: Time by State in the US

The schedule for this game has not yet been determined, but in the next few hours the information will be available.

How to watch Carlos Alcaraz vs Max Purcell

This match for the quarterfinal of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Carlos Alcaraz and Max Purcell can be watched in the United States on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

[Watch Novak Djokovic vs Davidovich Fokina online FREE in the US on Fubo]

The introduction of one of the primary contenders for this tournament is imminent, none other than Novak Djokovic, the world’s number 2, who has made it to the finals of all three Grand Slams held in 2023.

The Serbian’s inaugural match poses a challenging hurdle against Spain’s Davidovich Fokina, fresh from his triumph over Argentine Tomas Echeverry in the first round, with a score of 6-3, 6-3. This encounter marks their fifth meeting, with Djokovic securing three victories and Davidovich Fokina one.

When will Novak Djokovic vs Davidovich Fokina be played?

The match for the second round of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Novak Djokovic and Davidovich Fokina will take place this Wednesday, August 16 TBD.

Novak Djokovic vs Davidovich Fokina: Time by State in the US

ET: 7:00 PM
CT: 6:00 PM
MT: 5:00 PM
PT: 4:00 PM

How to watch Novak Djokovic vs Davidovich Fokina

This match for the second round of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Novak Djokovic and Davidovich Fokina can be watched in the United States on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

The Cincinnati Masters 1000, a pivotal event in the tennis calendar, holds a distinct position as one of the premier tournaments of the season. Taking place amidst the fervor of the 2023 season, it signifies a crucial juncture for both players and enthusiasts. As the seventh Master 1000 tournament out of the nine slated for the year, it stands as a testament to the players’ relentless dedication and skill.

Beyond the thrilling matches that unfold, the tournament showcases an electrifying fusion of talent, strategy, and sportsmanship. With its rich history and global significance, the Cincinnati Masters 1000 captures the essence of competitive tennis, attracting worldwide attention and shaping the journey towards tennis excellence.

What is the money price of the 2023 Cincinnati Master 1000?

In 2023, the ATP has set a total prize money pool of $6,600,000, marking a growth of 5.08% compared to the earnings of the previous year’s tournament. The men champion will get a $1,019,335 prize money.

The WTA‘s overall prize money pool has reached $2,788,468, showcasing a notable increase of 10.34% compared to the figures from 2022. The women’s champion will be rewarded with $454,500 in prize money, reflecting a significant surge of 10.32% from the earnings recorded just twelve months prior.

[Watch Madison Keys vs Elise Mertens online FREE in the US on Fubo]

This marks the premiere for a hometown tennis player, Madison Keys, who is determined to make a deep run in the 2023 Cincinnati Masters 1000, leveraging the advantage of competing in her home country. Ranked 15th in the world, she faces a challenging match ahead.

Her opponent, Elise Mertens, is known for her tenacity, though her achievements in doubles outweigh her accomplishments in singles. The Belgian enters the match as the underdog, aiming to catch the local crowd off guard.

When will Madison Keys vs Elise Mertens be played?

The match for the first round of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Madison Keys and Elise Mertens will take place this Tuesday, August 15 at 8:30 PM.

Madison Keys vs Elise Mertens: Time by State in the US

ET: 8:30 PM
CT: 7:30 PM
MT: 6:30 PM
PT: 5:30 PM

How to watch Madison Keys vs Elise Mertens

This match for the first round of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Madison Keys and Elise Mertens can be watched in the United States on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

[Watch Carlos Alcaraz vs Jordan Thompson online FREE in the US on Fubo]

This marks the inaugural match for one of the primary contenders vying for the title. Carlos Alcaraz, being exceptionally well-suited for this tournament, will embark on his journey in the second round with the assurance of his potential to reach the finals.

The Spanish player will not face an easy challenge, as his opponent will be Jordan Thompson—a player who emerged from the qualifiers but recently ousted a formidable adversary, John Isner, showcasing remarkable form. This encounter will constitute the maiden meeting between these two competitors.

When will Carlos Alcaraz vs Jordan Thompson be played?

The match for the second round of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Carlos Alcaraz and Jordan Thompson will take place this Tuesday, August 15 at 8:30 PM.

Carlos Alcaraz vs Jordan Thompson: Time by State in the US

ET: 8:30 PM
CT: 7:30 PM
MT: 6:30 PM
PT: 5:30 PM

How to watch Carlos Alcaraz vs Jordan Thompson

This match for the second round of the 2023 Cincinnati Masters between Carlos Alcaraz and Jordan Thompson can be watched in the United States on Fubo (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

The tournament begins for the number 1 in the world and one of the main candidates to win this tournament. The Russian Daniil Medvedev, after missing Wimbledon due to questionable directives from the English organization, has returned at a high level and now wants to show all his talent in this Cincinnati Masters 1000.

His rival will be Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, who is coming off a tough game in the first round where he defeated American Maxime Cressy 6-2, 4-6, 6-4. He knows very well that against the number 1 in the world he is undoubtedly the underdog, but he will try to do everything possible to complicate the Russian favorite for the title.

Daniil Medvedev vs Botic van de Zandschulp: Match Information

Date: Tuesday, August 16, 2022.
Time: 8:15 PM (ET)
Location: Lindner Family Tennis Center, Mason, Ohio
Live Stream: FuboTV (free trial)

Daniil Medvedev vs Botic van de Zandschulp: Time by state in the US

ET: 8:15 PM
CT: 7:15 PM
MT: 6:15 PM
PT: 5:15 AM

Daniil Medvedev vs Botic van de Zandschulp: Storylines

These two rivals have met in a total of two games throughout history, and both times they were in Grand Slam. Both times were, as might be expected, victories for the Russian number 1 in the world, and both times the Dutchman presented him with difficult games, although without complicating it too much.

The first confrontation was in the QF of the US Open 2021. On that occasion, the Russian won in 4 sets 6-3, 6-0, 4-6 and 7-5; while the second match was in the round of 32 of the Australian Open 2022 and this time Medvedev won in 3 sets 6-4, 6-4 and 6-2.

How to watch or live stream Daniil Medvedev vs Botic van de Zandschulp in the US

The match that Daniil MedvedevandBotic van de Zandschulp willplay for the second round of the 2022 Cincinnati Masters 1000 this Tuesday, August 16 will be broadcast in the United States on FuboTV (free trial). Other options: Tennis Channel.

Daniil Medvedev vs Botic van de Zandschulp: Predictions and Odds

The Oddsmakers have a favorite for this tennis match. These are the odds according to BetMGM: Daniil Medvedev is unsurprisingly the favorite with 1.16 odds, while Botic van de Zandschulp has 5.00.

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*Odds via BetMGM

However, both WTA and ATPNo.1 ranked players Daniil Medvedev and Iga Swiatek will try to clinch the tournament this year. Also, there will young talent such as Carlos Alcaraz, Ons Jabeur and Jannik Sinner, which guarantees the best-quality tennis being played in Ohio.

Therefore, if you want to attend this tournament, which will be among the top tournaments of the season, that will happen in U.S. soil, make sure to check out how much the tickets cost and how to buy them in order to watch top-tier tennis players.

How much dothe tickets for the 2022 Cincinnati Masters cost?

The Singles session tickets are valid for an entire day at the Lindner Family Tennis Center. As for thePremium tickets are divided in sections such asAll Inclusive, 1899 Room Box Section, andSidelinesSuitesThere werealso mini ticket-packagesand full series ticket-packagesthat went sold out already.

Single session tickets available per day

Session 1 tickets price: Between$26 and $128 per ticket
Session 2tickets price: Between $29and $128 per ticket
Session 3tickets price: Between $12and $128 per ticket
Session 4tickets price: Between $65 and $305per ticket
Session 5tickets price: Between $24and $312per ticket
Session 6tickets price: Between $90and $312per ticket
Session 7tickets price: Between $49 and $400 per ticket
Session 8tickets price: Between $120and $500 per ticket
Session 9tickets price: Between $40 and $400 per ticket
Session 10 tickets price: Between $70 and $370 per ticket
Session 11 tickets price: Between $50 and $300 per ticket
Session 12 tickets price: Between $56 and $350per ticket
Session 13 tickets price: Between $62 and $327 per ticket
Session 14 tickets price: Between $67 and $750 per ticket
Session 15 tickets price: Between $70 and $750per ticket
Session 16tickets price: Between $86 and $750 per ticket

All-Inclusive Club tickets available per session

According to the Cincinnati Masters website, the All-Inclusive Level tickets includes top-notch views, a chef-inspired buffet and an air-conditioned lounge.

All-Inclusive Club – Session 1 tickets price: $150 for sections C1, C3 or C4
All-Inclusive Club – Session 2tickets price: $150 for sections C1, C2or C3
All-Inclusive Club – Session 3tickets price: $125for sections C1, C3 or C4
All-Inclusive Club – Session 10tickets price: $325for sections C1, C5or C6
All-Inclusive Club – Session 12 tickets price: $350 for sections C1, C2or C3
All-Inclusive Club – Session 14 tickets price: $400 for sectionC4
All-Inclusive Club – Session 16 tickets price: $400 for sections C1, C3 or C5

1899 Room Box Sectiontickets available per session

1899 Room Box Section – Session 1tickets price: $128for section 601, 602, 604
1899 Room Box Section – Session 2tickets price: $128 for section 601, 602, 604
1899 Room Box Section – Session 3tickets price: $128 for section 601, 602, 603
1899 Room Box Section – Session 5 tickets price: $153for sections 601, 604
1899 Room Box Section – Session 7tickets price: $203for sections 601, 602, 604
1899 Room Box Section – Session 9tickets price: $278for sections 601, 602, 604
1899 Room Box Section – Session 11tickets price: $278for sections 601, 602, 604
1899 Room Box Section – Session 14tickets price: $350 for section 601
1899 Room Box Section -Session 15tickets price: $325for section 602

Sideline Suites Section tickets available per session

Sideline Suites Section – Session 1tickets price: $110for section232
Sideline Suites Section – Session 2tickets price: $116 for section 232
Sideline Suites Section – Session 3tickets price: $84 for sections232
Sideline Suites Section – Session 7 tickets price: $133 for sections 229, 232
Sideline Suites Section – Session 8 tickets price: $215for sections 229
Sideline Suites Section – Session 11tickets price: $194for section232
Sideline Suites Section – Session 14tickets price: $253for sections 229, 232
Sideline SuitesSection – Session 16tickets price: $256 for sections 229, 232

How to buy tickets for the 2022 Cincinnati Masters?

If you want to go to a 2022 Cincinnati Masters game session or you want to buy the Premiumticketscheck out Ticketmasteror theCincinnati Masters Openwebsite for tickets available on sale.