Jannik Sinner shocked fans at the Cincinnati Open final by retiring just 20 minutes into the match, and he’s now opened up about the decision that left many stunned.
Coming into the final as a slight favorite—thanks to his impressive hard court form and recent victory over Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon—Sinner looked poised to challenge for the ATP Masters 1000 title. But from the start, things didn’t go according to plan.
Alcaraz came out strong, quickly racing to a 5-0 lead. But it soon became clear that Sinner was not just being outplayed—he was physically struggling. Battling the intense Cincinnati heat, the Italian called for the physio and, after a brief consultation, chose to retire from the match.
The retirement came just 20 minutes into the final, leaving fans disappointed and confused. Sinner, visibly emotional, addressed the crowd during the trophy ceremony, offering a heartfelt apology.
“Usually, I start with the opponent, but today I have to start with you guys. I’m super, super sorry to disappoint you,” Sinner said. “From yesterday, I didn’t feel great. I thought I would improve during the night, but 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 really, really sorry.”
Despite the circumstances, Sinner was gracious in defeat, congratulating Alcaraz and wishing him well for the US Open.
“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 all the best for the US Open and the rest of the season.”
Following the match, Sinner spoke to ATP media rather than holding a full press conference. He reiterated that he had felt unwell the day before and tried to push through for the fans.
“Yes, of course, disappointed. Didn’t feel great from yesterday. Also during the night, I thought I would recover a bit better, but it was not the case,” he said. “I just tried to go out for the fans, trying to give a match. That’s the reason why I went on the court, but it was not meant to be for me today.”
“But I don’t want to take anything away from Carlos. He had a great week, great, great tournament again. Now the main focus is the US Open. Recovery is the most important thing now, and then we’ll see.”
Sinner now shifts his focus to Flushing Meadows, where a potential rematch with Alcaraz could be on the horizon. If health permits, another chapter in their growing rivalry may soon unfold under the lights in New York.
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