Jannik Sinner was forced to retire from the Cincinnati Open final on Monday, and Carlos Alcaraz was full of empathy for his opponent.
The Italian ended the match when 0-5 down in the first set, later citing illness as the reason for his retirement.
Alcaraz has now won his eighth Masters 1000 title, and 22nd ATP Tour title overall. Sinner, meanwhile, remains on a total of four Masters 1000 titles.
The Spaniard expressed empathy for his opponent in his post-match speech, while noting that Sinner is ‘truly a champion.’
After the match, Alcaraz took to social media to further sympathise with his opponent.
Carlos Alcaraz says he feels ‘so sorry’ for Jannik Sinner
Alcaraz, who is recognised as one of the most gracious players on the ATP Tour, quickly posted a message sympathising with his great rival after his retirement.
The Spaniard wished Sinner a speedy recovery, while also noting a sense of satisfaction regarding his week in Cincinnati.
On X [Twitter], Alcaraz said: “I’m so sorry for Jannik!
“Nobody likes to win because their opponent retires, especially in a final like this. Wishing you a speedy recovery!
“Very happy with my week in Cincinnati and feeling ready for the US Open!”
Alcaraz will have to travel quickly to New York for the US Open Mixed Doubles, which is set to begin on Tuesday. Alcaraz is partnering British number one Emma Raducanu.
Brad Gilbert sends a message to Jannik Sinner
Brad Gilbert, the former coach of Andy Murray and Andre Agassi, also expressed his sympathy for Jannik Sinner on X.
Gilbert, who has also worked with Coco Gauff and Andy Roddick, said: “Hopefully it’s just minor what happened to Sin City [Sinner].”
Alcaraz now leads Sinner by six wins to two on hard courts after defeating Sinner in Cincinnati, and by nine wins to five overall.
Both Sinner and Alcaraz are scheduled to play in the US Open Mixed Doubles tournament, which starts on Tuesday. However, it remains to be seen if Sinner will take part after his retirement on Monday.
