The 2025 Cincinnati Open men’s singles final promised to be another classic between tennis’s two brightest stars, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Instead, fans were left heartbroken after the highly anticipated clash ended in just 23 minutes when Sinner was forced to retire while trailing 5-0 in the opening set.
The Italian, who entered the match as the defending champion, visibly struggled from the very beginning. Unable to hold serve and constantly battling physical discomfort, he eventually called for the physio — but by then, it was clear he could not continue.
Jannik Sinner’s emotional admission after retirement
Following his early exit, Sinner addressed the crowd in an emotional speech, revealing the upsetting reason that forced him to withdraw from the final.
“First, usually I start with the opponent but today I have to start with you guys,” Jannik Sinner told fans. “I am super, super sorry to disappoint you. From yesterday I did not feel great. I thought that I would improve during the night but it came out worse so I tried to come out to make it at least a small match, but I could not handle more. So I am very sorry for all of you.
“I know some of you on Monday had to work or do something else, so I am really, really sorry.”
His words highlighted the immense disappointment he felt, not only for himself but for the thousands of fans who came to witness what was expected to be another thrilling battle between two modern rivals.
Carlos Alcaraz shows respect for his rival
Though Carlos Alcaraz was officially crowned Cincinnati Open champion for the first time, the Spaniard made it clear that this was not the way he wanted to win. At the net, he consoled his rival with heartfelt words of respect, acknowledging the effort Jannik Sinner had made just to step on court.
Alcaraz later told fans: “This is not the way that I want to win matches or to win a trophy. I have to say sorry, I know and understand how you feel right now. I can’t say anything you don’t know already but you are truly a champion. I am pretty sure that from these situations you are going to come back better and even stronger.”
What it means for both stars ahead of the US Open 2025
While the final did not deliver the spectacle fans had hoped for, the moment underscored the growing respect and sportsmanship between two of the game’s fiercest competitors. For Alcaraz, the victory marks his 22nd ATP Tour title and provides a confidence boost heading into the US Open 2025.
For Jannik Sinner, the priority now shifts to recovery. Despite the setback in Cincinnati, his remarkable form over the past two seasons suggests he will once again bounce back stronger, as Carlos Alcaraz predicted.
The disappointment of this final may linger, but it has only added another dramatic chapter to a rivalry shaping the future of men’s tennis.