Jannik Sinner’s Winning Streak Ends Abruptly at Cincinnati Open Due to Illness
World number one Jannik Sinner’s impressive 26-match winning streak on hard courts came to an unexpected halt on Monday night when he had to withdraw from the Cincinnati Open final due to illness, just five games into the match. This withdrawal was a disappointing turn of events for fans who were eager to witness a gripping showdown between two of tennis’s top players.
Sinner faced off against defending US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz but was visibly in distress during the brief 23-minute match, where he struggled with stomach issues and was broken three times by his opponent. "I’m super sorry to disappoint you," Sinner told the crowd. "Since yesterday, I didn’t feel great. I thought I would improve overnight, but it got worse."
The 24-year-old expressed his gratitude to the fans who showed up on a Monday night, acknowledging their commitment: "I tried to make it a small match, but I couldn’t handle more. I’m really sorry for all of you, especially those who have work or other commitments."
Alcaraz’s unexpected victory marked his eighth ATP 1000 title, adding to an already remarkable 2025 season that has seen him win six tournaments. Following Sinner’s retirement, Alcaraz offered words of support, saying, "I know and understand how you feel right now. You are a true champion, and I’m sure you will come back stronger."
As Sinner prepares for the upcoming US Open, which starts this Sunday in New York, concerns about his health linger. However, former Grand Slam doubles champion Ryan Harrison reassured fans about Sinner’s prospects for defending his title. "He will go straight to the doctors. I wouldn’t be overly worried, considering the US Open is two weeks away and players get a day off after each match," Harrison stated during a Sky Sports Tennis broadcast.
With the extreme temperatures in Cincinnati already causing several player withdrawals and health issues, Sinner’s focus will now be on recovery. Pundits believe that with adequate rest and treatment, he could be in top form by the later rounds of the US Open.
As for Alcaraz, he will take part in a mixed doubles exhibition in New York alongside Britain’s Emma Raducanu, while Sinner is expected to skip the two-day event to focus on his recovery.
Stay tuned for more updates as both players gear up for the US Open!
