"I know that maybe some of you on Monday had to work": Jannik Sinner sends heartfelt apology to fans after sudden Cincinnati Open retirement

Jannik Sinner’s Cincinnati Open campaign ended in disappointment on Sunday night, as the Italian was forced to retire trailing 5–0 in the opening set of the final against Carlos Alcaraz. Clearly unwell and physically struggling, Sinner called for the physio and trainer and sat on his bench looking exhausted before making the decision to withdraw.

Despite the crushing end to what had been another impressive run, Sinner took the microphone afterwards and delivered a heartfelt speech as per Tennis Channel to the Cincinnati crowd, his opponent, his team, and the tournament organisers.

“Hello everyone,” Sinner began, visibly emotional. “First, I usually start with the opponent, but today I have to start with you guys. I’m super, super sorry to disappoint you. From yesterday I didn’t feel great. I thought that I would improve during the night, but it came up worse. So I tried to come out, trying to make it at least a small match, but I couldn’t handle more. I’m very sorry for all of you. I know that maybe some of you on Monday had to work, they had to do something else, so I’m really, really sorry.”

Turning to his opponent, Sinner was full of praise for Alcaraz, who lifted another Masters 1000 title. “Of course, Carlos, congrats, another title. For sure not the way you wanted to, but it’s amazing what kind of season you are producing, you and your whole team. You’re doing amazing, keep it up. I wish you only the best for the US Open and obviously the rest of the season.”

Sinner also took time to acknowledge the role of those closest to him. “A couple of words also to my team. Thank you for pushing me every day, also to understand me, because sometimes it’s also not easy when we travel around the world the whole year. So thank you so much for the support, thank you for understanding also this situation today. I’m very sorry to disappoint, but sometimes it’s like this and we have to accept it.”

The Italian reflected on the challenging conditions in Cincinnati, with heat and humidity a defining feature of the week. “It has been one of the hottest tournaments we played, I feel like the warmest, or however you call it. So thank you so much for the support, for all the people who came, for the organisation who makes us feel at home. You made an incredible change throughout one year, which is incredible to see.”

Sinner’s gratitude also extended to the tournament staff, especially the younger volunteers who endured the brutal conditions. “Running in this heat also for all the ball kids and ball boys—I know there is a lot of effort behind, so thank you for everything.”

He closed his address with a final message to those who had supported him despite his abrupt ending to the final: “Thank you for the cheering players and see you again next year, hopefully in better shape. Thank you so much, I appreciate it.”

It was a sombre and difficult moment for the world No. 1, who had arrived in Cincinnati as one of the favourites and looked determined to continue his remarkable 2025 season. Yet, even in disappointment, his words reflected humility, respect for his rival, and appreciation for the fans and organisers.

The attention now turns to the US Open, where Sinner will hope to recover fully and return to his best condition. He may yet play tomorrow. He is currently pencilled in to play mixed doubles with Katerina Siniakova but whether that happens is another matter and he will likely withdraw it is presumed.