“Shameful from Jannik Sinner"; “Very unfortunate” - Fans react to Italian's walkover to Carlos Alcaraz at Cincinnati Open final while trailing

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner were expected to deliver a thrilling battle in the 2025 Cincinnati Open final on Monday, August 18, but things took an unexpected turn when Sinner retired early. The abrupt ending left many fans confused, with some accusing the Italian of faking his situation.

Sinner retired with apparent illness in the first set against Alcaraz after falling 5-0 behind. He was the defending champion, and it’s a major blow as his retirement comes just days before the start of the US Open. First-round matches are scheduled to begin next Monday.

With this win, the Spaniard secured his first-ever title in Cincinnati, completing a full-circle moment after falling short to Novak Djokovic in the 2023 final. It also marks the 22nd career title of his young career.

Fans have since taken to X (formerly Twitter) to share their reactions. While some accused Jannik Sinner of retiring just to avoid the embarrassment of being bagelled by Carlos Alcaraz, others showed sympathy.

"Absolutely disgusting and shameful act from Sinner. Alcaraz had a chance to bagel him, and he retires. He should've played the final game and then retired. Will never be respected," one user wrote.

"Alcaraz destroyed him. Sinner can't accept that he was about to get bageled. Pathetic scenes," another wrote.

One account posted:

"He is a sore loser who can't accept he was about to get bageled. He could've let Alcaraz serve it out. But a sore loser. Let his cult defend this too. But he got owned and cried."

"Definitely very unfortunate for both players. Definitely not the way Carlos wanted to win and definitely not something sinner wanted to do. Trust me, he’s only retiring if he was feeling super crappy," one user commented.

"I feel sorry for him, but we all know that if you feel bad, there's nothing you can do. You need to rest, lie down, and heal. I wish you good health, Jannik," another joined in.

One account tweeted:

"It is sad it ended this way. I hope Sinner recovers soon and is ready for US Open."

Jannik Sinner to his fans after Cincinnati Open retirement: "I’m super sorry to disappoint you"

Jannik Sinner pictured at the 2025 Cincinnati Open | Image Source: Getty

Jannik Sinner was visibly emotional and disappointed after having to give a walkover against Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati Open final. Despite his discomfort, he remained on court to deliver his runner-up speech, apologizing to his fans for not living up to their expectations.

Sinner said:

"Usually I 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 I would improve during the night. It came up worse. I tried to come out and make it at least a small match but I couldn’t handle more."

"I’m very very sorry for all of you. I know some of you on Monday maybe had to work or do something else, so I’m very very sorry," he added.

The Italian then shifted his focus to Alcaraz, congratulating him on the victory and wishing him the best for the upcoming US Open and the rest of the season.

"Carlos congrats. Another title. Not the way you wanted to win but it’s amazing what kind of season you’re producing. You and your whole team are doing amazing. Keep it up. I wish you only all the best for the U.S. Open and the rest of the season," Jannik Sinner said.

Jannik Sinner is scheduled to begin his US Open mixed doubles campaign on Tuesday alongside partner Katerina Siniakova against Alexander Zverev and Belinda Bencic. However, given his current condition, it remains uncertain whether he will be able to take the court.

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Edited by Pritha Ghosh