What many anticipated to be an intense back-and-forth battle ended sooner than expected. Jannik Sinner was forced to retire while trailing heavily against Carlos Alcaraz, allowing the Spaniard to claim the Cincinnati Open title.
Visibly uncomfortable from the start, the Italian player never managed to find his rhythm as the match went on. The sweltering heat proved to be a key factor in the outcome, ultimately forcing one of today’s top tennis players to retire before the match could be completed.
Speaking to the crowd after the match and the trophy presentation, Sinner addressed the intense conditions the players had to face: “It’s been one of the hottest tournaments we played.”
Once the retirement was confirmed, Alcaraz approached his opponent’s bench and, in a show of sportsmanship, expressed his sympathy for Sinner’s discomfort: “What matters is what matters,” he told him.
Carlos Alcaraz of Spain reacts after winning a point during the match against Alexander Zverev of Germany during Day 10 of the Cincinnati Open at the Lindner Family Tennis Center on August 16, 2025 in Mason, Ohio.
Sinner’s message to the crowd
Overwhelmed by the heat and physically drained, yet still willing to speak to the crowd, Jannik Sinner took the microphone and delivered a message to everyone present, including champion Carlos Alcaraz.
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“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 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…
“Of course Carlos congrats. 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 U.S. Open and the rest of the season.”
What’s next for Jannik Sinner?
On August 24, a new edition of the US Open — one of the four Grand Slam tournaments — will get underway, and Jannik Sinner is expected to be one of its key contenders. However, whether he’ll be fit to compete in New York remains to be seen, depending on his health status.
