On Monday, Carlos Alcaraz claimed his first Cincinnati Masters title in unusual circumstances. World no. 1 Jannik Sinner was forced to retire due to illness while trailing 5-0, handing the trophy to his greatest rival.
While pleased with his strong start, the Spaniard admitted he quickly noticed something was wrong on the other side of the net. Carlos did not recognize Jannik's issues at the beginning of the duel.
However, the signs became clear around the third game. It manifested when Sinner began making more mistakes than usual and went for risky shots to avoid exchanges and more running.
Tennis amaro per l’Italia: a #Cincinnati la finale del Masters 1000 tra #Sinner e #Alcaraz dura appena 23 minuti.
L’altoatesino si ritira per un forte malessere.
Nella finale femminile #Paolini ko in due set contro la Swiatek.
E oggi al via gli US Open.#Tg1 Marco Tripisciano pic.twitter.com/vvqCVjLk5V— Tg1 (@Tg1Rai) August 19, 2025
While recognizing his rival's problems, Alcaraz stayed focused on maintaining his level. However, he regretted the abrupt ending to what was expected to be another chapter in their growing rivalry.
Carlos emphasized his concern for Jannik, sending him well wishes and hoping to see him at his best at the US Open, where they are expected to embrace another title clash.
They have been dominating the ATP Tour since the beginning of 2024, sharing the notable titles and leaving all the rivals far behind.
Jannik Sinner & Carlos Alcaraz, Cincinnati 2025© Stream screenshot
"I feel really bad for Jannik. I can not imagine how he must be feeling right now. It's not easy to retire in a final. I have faced him many times over the last two years; I know his game and style.
I did not realize he was struggling at the beginning of the match. Around the third game, I noticed he was making way more errors than usual and played much more aggressive tennis than normal.
Then I realized something was going on. I tried to focus on my game. I made a strong start, and it was my goal to keep playing like that. Sadly, we played only five games. I wish him all the best and a speedy recovery for the US Open," Carlos Alcaraz said.
