Jannik Sinner retires as Carlos Alcaraz crowned champion in sad abrupt end to Cincinnati Open

Those expecting to see a classic Sinalcaraz final once again like Wimbledon or Roland Garros were not treated to one as it ended up being a bit of a damp squibb in the end as Carlos Alcaraz was crowned Cincinnati Open champion through retirement.

Alcaraz surged into a 5-0 lead in the end and Sinner soon called the trainer as something didn't seem quite right about the Italian and he retired from the tournament. Seemingly it was to do with the heat and he was unwell on the court.

With the US Open on the horizon, Sinner seemingly didn't want to risk it and looked depleted and a shadow of himself as he sat on the bench calling the doctor and the physio. This after only twenty minutes of the final as he failed to defend his crown that he won 12 months ago.

There were fears that Alcaraz may not be able to play mixed doubles tomorrow at the US Open alongside Emma Raducanu, but given he was only on court for 20 minutes this also helps that bid as he joins forces with the Brit in the most discussed line-up of the tournament. Whether Sinner plays remains to be seen as he has signed up to partner Katerina Siniakova but given the state of the World No.1, it would be no shock to see him out.

A tournament that saw the match that tennis fans wanted brought up again and in the end it was a bit of a non-event in a bit of a disappointing end as it seemed that Sinner just had nothing left to give after another gruelling week. There was also a heartwarming moment at the end as Alcaraz went over to check on his friend and closest rival as he had to retire from the tie. Likely he will forego the celebrations too in respect as he adds Cincinnati to his roll of honour especially pertinent given that he fell apart two years ago against Novak Djokovic when he looked like he had it won.

So despite the circumstances, it is one to savour for Alcaraz certainly when all is said and done.