Jannik Sinner Retires in Cincinnati Final—Still Vows to Defend US Open Title

In a heartbreaking twist, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner was forced to retire from the Cincinnati Open final due to illness, handing the trophy to Carlos Alcaraz after trailing 5-0. Even as Sinner battles health concerns, he remains determined to defend his US Open title with an ambitious statement of resilience.

Illness Strikes at the Worst Time

Sinner’s 26-match hard court win streak was halted abruptly just 23 minutes into the match. Overwhelmed by dizziness and low energy—likely from heat and fatigue—he withdrew in the first set. Alcaraz, visibly empathetic, congratulated him post-match and labeled him a “true champion.” [oai_citation:0‡Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/sports/tennis/alcaraz-wins-cincinnati-open-after-ailing-sinner-retires-final-2025-08-18/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) [oai_citation:1‡Cadena SER](https://cadenaser.com/nacional/2025/08/18/el-gesto-de-deportividad-de-carlos-alcaraz-con-jannik-sinner-cadena-ser/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Recovery Is the Immediate Focus

Despite the setback, Sinner hasn’t lost hope. In a statement after the match, he reaffirmed his commitment to the season’s final Grand Slam. “I love Grand Slams… I will be ready to push… now a couple of days of recovery, and then we get back to work,” he said, making clear that the US Open remains his priority. [oai_citation:2‡The Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/tennis/top-stories/us-open-2025-jannik-sinner-vows-to-play-in-new-york-after-cincinnati-retirement/articleshow/123378290.cms?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Mixed Doubles Status: Uncertain

Sinner was set to compete in the US Open mixed doubles alongside Katerina Siniakova. That plan is now in jeopardy—his illness and sudden withdrawal in Cincinnati have cast uncertainty over his participation in the event. [oai_citation:3‡The Sun](https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/36357478/us-open-tennis-live-scores-raducanu-alcaraz-draper-pegula-updates/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

What’s Next for Sinner

With the US Open fast approaching, all eyes will be on his health and form. Can he pull off a quick turnaround and get back to Grand Slam glory? Only time (and tennis fans) will wait and watch.

From a Cincinnati collapse to a US Open promise—this storyline isn’t over by a long shot.