Jannik Sinner has broken his silence after being forced to withdraw from the Cincinnati Open final against Carlos Alcaraz.
The two best tennis players in the world renewed their on-court rivalry on Monday, squaring off for the 14th time overall and the fourth encounter in 2025.
World No.1 Sinner won the last contest when he defeated Alcaraz to end a five-match losing streak and became Wimbledon champion.
He was hoping to follow that up with another triumph in the Cincinnati Open but retired after just 20 minutes when 5-0 down.
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The pull-out was announced by the umpire after Sinner had said, "I’m sorry guys, I can't".
There was confusion as to whether it was an illness or an injury to the Italian but he addressed the fans afterwards, issuing an apology and revealing he "didn't feel great" on Sunday and could not handle the challenge.
“Usually I start with the opponent but today I have to start with you guys, Sinner said, addressing the fans in attendance.
"I’m super super sorry to disappoint you. 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 had to work or do something else, so I’m very very sorry.”
Sinner paid tribute to his opponent, adding: "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 U.S. Open and the rest of the season."
Alcaraz's classy gesture to Sinner
Five-time Grand Slam winner Alcaraz claimed $1,124,380 in prize money and showed his class but sending well wishes to Sinner, through a message written on the camera lens and a speech on the microphone.
“I can’t say anything you don’t know already, you are truly a champion," Alcaraz said.
“You are going to come back better and stronger, you always do.
“That’s what true champions do. I’m sorry, come back stronger.”
Sinner had been scheduled to compete in the US Open, a major tournament he won last year - starting with the mixed doubles event alongside partner Katerina Siniakova on Tuesday afternoon.
That would appear to be in doubt given Sinner's emotions and comments on the court.
Alcaraz is poised to team with Brit Emma Radacuna in a start-studded doubles pairing taking to the court in New York.
Topics: Carlos Alcaraz, Tennis
Josh Lawless