JANNIK SINNER has retired from the Cincinnati Open final, sparking fears over his US Open participation.
Wimbledon champion Sinner was in action against Carlos Alcaraz.
However, the Italian put down his racquet and withdrew from the match before a set had even been completed.
Alcaraz had soared into a 5-0 lead, with Sinner clearly off his game.
And after just 23 minutes of play, the No1 seed sat down on his chair and retired from the game, saying he felt like he could collapse.
Sinner told trainers and a tournament official: “I cannot move – I feel like I can collapse.”
He apologised to fans as medics rushed over to treat him.
Sinner was heard saying: “I tried, but I can’t. I’m sorry for the fans.”
The 24-year-old cast an emotional figure as he sat down before Alcaraz came over to console him.
Speaking after receiving his runner-up trophy, Sinner said: “I’m super sorry to disappoint you. From yesterday, I didn’t feel great.
“I thought I would during the night but it got worse.
“I tried to come out and make it a small match but I couldn’t handle more. I’m very sorry for all of you.
“I know some of you on Monday have to work or do something else, so I’m really sorry.”
The withdrawal has also sparked fears over his participation in the US Open.
Sinner is due to play alongside Czech tennis star Kateřina Siniaková in the mixed doubles event against Alexander Zverev and Belinda Bencic in the round of 16 tomorrow.
The main draw for the men’s singles US Open will commence from Sunday.
Sinner also congratulated Alcaraz on the victory, which was the 22-year-old’s eighth Masters title.
He added: “Congrats to Carlos for another title. For sure, not the way you wanted it but it’s amazing what kind of season you are producing.
“To you and your team, I wish you the best for the US Open and the rest of the season.
“To my team, thank you for pushing me every day and understanding me and the situation today.
“I’m sorry to disappoint but sometimes it’s like this and we have to accept it.
“It’s been one of the hottest tournaments we have faced, so thank you for all of the support and organisation.”
Alcaraz admitted it was not the way he wanted to win the game before also issuing an apology.
But in a classy gesture, he called Sinner a “true champion” and declared that he would “come back better, even stronger”.
He also wrote the words “sorry Jannik” with a sad face on a TV camera.
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