Top-Ranked Sinner Withdraws Cincinnati Final, US Open Fitness Uncertain

Top-ranked Jannik Sinner, the defending U.S. Open champion, withdrew from the Cincinnati Open final due to illness, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of the U.S. Open. Sinner retired early in the match against rival Carlos Alcaraz, citing flu symptoms, a high fever, and the punishing heat and humidity, after falling behind 5-0 in the first set. His withdrawal also led him to pull out of the U.S. Open mixed doubles event, as he focuses on recovery. Despite his recent illness, Sinner has had a stellar season with a 31-4 record, though three losses were to Alcaraz, who won the Cincinnati title and is poised to challenge Sinner for the world number one ranking at the U.S. Open. The health of the 24-year-old Italian is critical for the final Grand Slam of the year, as both he and Alcaraz have dominated recent major titles, setting up a potential marquee showdown. Alcaraz expressed sympathy for Sinner's situation and acknowledged the champion's resilience, while the tennis community watches closely to see how Sinner bounces back.