Italian Jannik Sinner retired against Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz after illness left him struggling at the Cincinnati Open.

After falling behind 0–5 with nine unforced errors in the first set, Sinner called for the doctor but was unable to continue. The match lasted only 22 minutes before he was forced to retire. 

In a post-match interview Sinner apologised to the audience for his withdrawal.

“I’m super sorry to disappoint you,” Sinner said. “Yesterday I didn’t feel great. I hoped I would be better but I came out worse. I couldn’t handle more. I’m really, really sorry.”

Alcaraz, gave his best wishes to Sinner. 

“You are a true champion and I’m sure you will come back better, even stronger,” Alcaraz said. “You always do and that’s what true champions do.” 

Sinner, has won 26 straight hard court matches and was on a 12-match winning streak. He was looking to become the first man since Roger Federer in 2014 and 2015 to win the Cincinnati Open twice in a row.

However, the outcome can significantly affect the competition for the top spot in the world rankings. Carlos Alcaraz has the chance to overtake Jannik Sinner if he collects enough points in Cincinnati and at the U.S. Open, a tournament where Cincinnati champions often carry their winning momentum.

Photo: Centre court Cincinnati Open 2012 by Josué Goge and is found HERE and used under a creative commons licence. This image has not been modified.