Carlos Alcaraz was crowned Cincinnati Open champion on Sunday in unusual circumstances, as Jannik Sinner was forced to retire early in the final, handing the Spaniard his third Masters 1000 title of the season.
The much-anticipated clash between two of tennis’s brightest young stars began with intensity, but hopes of a classic were cut short. Alcaraz raced to a 5-0 lead in the opening set, showcasing his trademark variety and aggressive shot-making. Sinner, who had looked sharp throughout the week, struggled physically from the outset and required treatment before eventually deciding he could not continue.
While the ending was anticlimactic for fans eager to see another chapter in the Alcaraz–Sinner rivalry, the victory underlined Alcaraz’s consistency and dominance this season. The Spaniard added Cincinnati to his growing Masters 1000 collection, further solidifying his status as the man to beat on tour heading into the US Open.
For Sinner, the retirement was a disappointing conclusion to an otherwise strong week. The Italian had played confident, attacking tennis to reach the final, defeating qualifier Terence Atmane in the semifinals. His withdrawal, however, raised concerns about his fitness with another Grand Slam just around the corner.
Despite the abrupt ending, the tournament highlighted the next generation’s grip on men’s tennis. With Alcaraz lifting the trophy, Cincinnati 2025 will be remembered as both a milestone in his young career and a reminder of the physical demands the sport places on its top stars.
