Carlos Alcaraz was crowned Cincinnati Open champion after Jannik Sinner was forced to retire in the first set of their final, with the Spaniard quick to comfort his rival
Carlos Alcaraz had a classy response to Jannik Sinner after the Italian was forced to pull out of the Cincinnati Open final. The two rising stars clashed for the fourth time this year in the Ohio decider before illness meant Sinner had to retire while trailing 5-0 in the opening set.
The pair have already served up two classics on the Grand Slam circuit this year. Alcaraz produced one of the greatest comebacks of all time to defend his French Open title before Sinner struck back in the Wimbledon final.
And the duo were brought together again at the Lindner Family Tennis Centre, where Alcaraz secured his eighth Masters 1000 crown. But the Daily Express reported there were no celebrations from the world No. 2 after Sinner confirmed he was unable to continue.
READ MORE: Jannik Sinner’s illness, Carlos Alcaraz’s classy touch and Cincinnati final’s shock endREAD MORE: Jannik Sinner’s comments to opponent immediately after match revealed by rival
The Spaniard’s immediate concern was instead to console his rival during a moment of anguish. He dismissed Sinner’s apologies over something beyond his control and put his arm around his shoulder as he said: “No, no worries. The first thing is to stay healthy.”
Alcaraz then allowed Sinner some breathing room before returning to comfort his adversary again. Sinner’s disappointment was evident as he kept explaining his predicament, while Alcaraz could be heard saying repeatedly: “Don’t worry.”
Sinner did manage to address the crowd in Ohio as his tournament ended in heart-breaking fashion. And the Italian was full of regret that he couldn’t provide those present with the entertainment they had come to witness.
“Usually I start with the opponent, but today I have to start with you guys. I’m super, super sorry to disappoint you,” he told the crowd. “From yesterday I didn’t feel great. I thought I would improve during the night. 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 [have] to work or do something else, so I’m very very sorry. 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 US Open and the rest of the season.”
Alcaraz, who scribbled “Sorry Jannik” on a camera lens, spoke to supporters himself and confirmed the withdrawal was “not the way I want to win matches.” He also praised Sinner as “a true champion” and one he is confident will “come back stronger” despite the disappointment in Cincinnati.
“I’m so sorry for Jannik! Nobody likes to win because their opponent retires, especially in a final like this,” he later posted on X. “Wishing you a speedy recovery! Very happy with my week in Cincinnati and feeling ready for the US Open.”
The timing couldn’t be worse for Sinner, with the US Open singles competition just around the corner. However, there’s optimism he’ll recover in time to compete in the final Grand Slam of the calendar.
His mixed doubles campaign with Katerina Siniakova, set to kick off on Tuesday, is now hanging by a thread. Meanwhile, Alcaraz is all set to team up with Emma Raducanu to face Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper.
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