The 2025 Cincinnati Open final concluded abruptly when Jannik Sinner was forced to retire due to illness, handing Carlos Alcaraz the title. The match, lasting a mere 22 minutes, saw Alcaraz leading 5-0 in the first set before Sinner’s withdrawal. Sinner displayed visible struggles, accumulating nine unforced errors and receiving treatment with ice on his head during a break in play.
Prior to the final, Sinner was enjoying a 12-match winning streak and had remained undefeated on hard court surfaces for 26 matches. The 24-year-old aimed to replicate Roger Federer’s feat (2014 & 2015) of consecutive Cincinnati titles. His physical condition, however, prevented him from competing in what would have been his fourth final of the year, and his first since the Wimbledon tournament.
Following his retirement, Sinner apologized to both Alcaraz and the spectators for his inability to perform at his usual level. He revealed he had been feeling unwell since the previous night and had attempted to push through, but his condition worsened on the court. The illness deprived him of his energy, leading to his retirement.
Sinner shared his disappointment, explaining he hadn’t felt well since the day before. He expressed his regret for disappointing the fans, acknowledging some had prior commitments. He also congratulated Alcaraz for his triumph, acknowledging Alcaraz’s outstanding season and wished him well for the US Open and the remainder of the season.
This result increases Alcaraz’s head-to-head record to 9-5. Their rivalry has included notable matches such as Sinner’s four-set victory at Wimbledon, Alcaraz’s straight-set win at the Rome Masters, and Alcaraz’s five-set victory in the Wimbledon final. The Cincinnati final was poised to add another chapter to their competitive history, but Sinner’s health issues prematurely ended the match.
With the US Open commencing in New York this coming Sunday, the focus now turns to the final Grand Slam of the season. The Cincinnati Open has often served as a predictor for the US Open results. Winners in Cincinnati in recent years have often achieved significant runs in the Flushing Meadows major. With Alcaraz’s Cincinnati victory, expectations will be high for his performance in New York.