Alcaraz lifts Cincinnati title after Sinner retires

Carlos Alcaraz secures the Cincinnati Open as Jannik Sinner withdraws from the final due to illness in hot, humid conditions.

Alcaraz wins Cincinnati Open after Sinner retires with illness

Carlos Alcaraz won the Cincinnati Open after Jannik Sinner retired from the final when trailing 0-5 in the opening set. Sinner said he had been feeling unwell since Sunday and could not continue in the heat, humidity, and long rallies. The match was played in tough conditions, with temperatures around 31C (87F) and 57 percent humidity, testing both players from the start.

Alcaraz did not give his rival any easy points and showed strong focus throughout the short match. After the retirement, he comforted Sinner at the net and thanked the crowd. Alcaraz later noted the moment was not how he wanted to win, while praising Sinner as a champion. The victory gives Alcaraz eight Masters 1000 titles by age 22, a mark only Rafael Nadal reached at a younger age. Sinner’s retirement ends a 26-match hard-court winning run for him.

The final underlines how health and weather can shape big matches. Alcaraz demonstrated discipline and mental steadiness, turning an early advantage into a win while a closely watched rival could not finish the contest. The episode also reinforces the sportsmanlike tone that often follows painful exits, with Alcaraz offering support and keeping the spotlight on the opponent rather than the setback.

Looking ahead, the pairing of Alcaraz and Sinner continues to define a rising era in men’s tennis. Their meetings this season have combined high stakes with human moments, reminding fans that sport is as much about resilience as results. The incident may fuel discussions about scheduling and conditioning in late-season finals, especially in heat, and how players balance competing at the highest level with their health.

Highlights

The season still has chapters to write for both players