Iga Swiatek wins Cincinnati Open, Sinner retires against Alcaraz

CINCINNATI: Iga Swiatek won the Cincinnati Open on Monday, beating Jasmin Paolini 7-5, 6-4, while Carlos Alcaraz was crowned the winner after Jannik Sinner was forced to retire early.

The match marked Swiatek’s first title at this event and her eleventh WTA 1000 crown.

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Jasmine Paolini started strong, taking an early lead. However, Swiatek responded with a series of games to take control. She converted all six break points in the match and did not drop a set throughout the game.

Swiatek’s victory moves her back up the rankings, putting her in a position to be seeded second at the upcoming US Open.

She said afterwards that she was surprised by her win and thanked her team for their support. Swiatek will also compete in the mixed doubles event at the US Open.

Read more: French Open: Sabalenka expecting another ‘great battle’ with Iga Swiatek

Carlos Alcaraz wins

In the men’s final, Carlos Alcaraz was declared champion after Jannik Sinner retired early in the first set due to illness. The two players were expected to renew their rivalry after recent matches, but it ended unexpectedly with Sinner unable to continue.

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Jannik Sinner showed signs of physical distress from the start, making uncharacteristic errors and struggling to find rhythm.   

With Alcaraz leading 5-0, Sinner decided to retire, citing worsening health. He apologised to fans and expressed regret at not being able to compete fully.

Read more: Jannik Sinner thrashes Vukic to roar into Wimbledon third round

Alcaraz said he was sorry to see his opponent leave the court injured and wished Sinner a quick recovery. His latest win is his eighth ATP 1000 title and adds to a strong season for the young Spaniard.

Sinner’s withdrawal raises doubts about his participation in the US Open, which begins later this week. He was also scheduled to appear in the mixed doubles events, but now faces uncertainty over his health.