Sinner withdraws from US Open mixed doubles, focuses on recovery in singles draw

Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner, world No. 1, announced on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, his withdrawal from the US Open mixed doubles event, which began the same day in New York. The decision came after he retired from the Cincinnati Masters 1000 final on Monday due to an illness that left him unable to continue against Carlos Alcaraz. Sinner, set to defend his title in the singles event starting August 24, chose to prioritize his physical and mental recovery for the Grand Slam. The move reflects the athlete’s caution, aiming to be in top form for a season marked by victories in tournaments like the Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2025.

Sinner’s withdrawal reshaped the mixed doubles competition, which this year adopts a new two-day format on August 19 and 20, before the singles event begins. He was set to partner with Czech player Katerina Siniakova, world No. 2 in doubles and a nine-time Grand Slam doubles champion. Their spot was taken by Americans Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison, who face Alexander Zverev and Belinda Bencic in the first round. Sinner shared his decision on social media, thanking fans for their support and emphasizing the need for rest after the Cincinnati episode.

The illness that struck Sinner during the Cincinnati Masters 1000 final raised concerns about his physical condition ahead of the season’s final Grand Slam. In Cincinnati, Sinner retired just 23 minutes into the match against Alcaraz, trailing 5/0 in the first set. He reported feeling unwell since the previous night but attempted to play out of respect for the audience. The intense heat in the American city likely worsened his condition.

• Key reasons for Sinner’s withdrawal:
  • Illness during the Cincinnati Masters 1000 final.
  • Need for physical recovery for the US Open singles event.
  • Focus on maintaining performance in the Grand Slam as the reigning champion.
  • Adverse weather conditions impacting his health in Cincinnati.

New format boosts expectations for mixed doubles

The 2025 US Open mixed doubles tournament has gained attention with its condensed two-day format, designed to attract top players. A $1 million prize (approximately R$5.3 million) for the winning pair has also increased interest. Despite Sinner and Siniakova’s absence, the event features high-profile pairings like Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu, Novak Djokovic and Olga Danilovic, and Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud.

The scheduling change, separating mixed doubles from the main draw, aims to spotlight the category, often overshadowed by singles matches. The US Open organizers hope star players will draw larger crowds and elevate the technical level of the games. The event also serves as a warm-up for players adapting to Flushing Meadows’ hard courts before the main tournament.

The Alcaraz-Raducanu duo, for instance, faces Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper in the first round, a matchup promising to captivate fans with its blend of talent and charisma. Alcaraz, fresh off his Cincinnati title after Sinner’s withdrawal, confirmed his participation in mixed doubles, praising the format as a chance to prepare for the Grand Slam.

Sinner’s Cincinnati health setback

The Cincinnati Masters 1000 final on August 18 ended abruptly with Sinner’s retirement. The Italian, enjoying an exceptional 2025 with wins at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, faced Alcaraz for the fourth time this year. The Spaniard won three of their four encounters, including Roland Garros and Rome, while Sinner prevailed at Wimbledon. The match ended after just five games, frustrating expectations for a competitive clash between the world’s top two players.

Sinner revealed he felt ill the night before the final but tried to compete for the fans. His body language showed discomfort, with unforced errors and limited mobility. Alcaraz, noticing his opponent’s condition, offered support after the retirement, highlighting the sportsmanship in their rivalry.

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• Facts about the Cincinnati final:
  • Lasted only 23 minutes, with Alcaraz leading 5/0.
  • Sinner reportedly had a 100.4°F fever, per medical reports.
  • Alcaraz claimed his eighth Masters 1000 title.
  • The match was their fourth final meeting in 2025.

Sinner’s preparation for the US Open

With the US Open singles event starting August 24, Sinner is focusing on recovery to defend his 2024 title. The Italian, the first from his country to reach ATP world No. 1, has a 26-match win streak on hard courts, unbroken until Cincinnati. His campaign there, despite the outcome, included strong wins, like a three-hour semifinal against Alexander Zverev.

Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, praised his resilience, noting challenges like a three-month suspension for a clostebol positive test, later ruled accidental contamination. His US Open preparation involves light training and medical monitoring to ensure readiness. Sinner expressed confidence in his recovery, stating the tournament will be tough but he’s eager for a potential second title.

Sinner-Alcaraz rivalry heats up

The rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz has defined the 2025 men’s circuit, blending intensity and mutual respect. Alcaraz, world No. 2, holds the edge in recent matchups, but Sinner remains competitive, especially in Grand Slams. The Cincinnati withdrawal doesn’t dampen anticipation for a potential US Open clash, where both are title favorites.

The 2025 season shows their balance, with Alcaraz winning Roland Garros and Sinner taking Wimbledon. The US Open offers a chance to solidify their rankings and legacies. While Sinner focuses on recovery, Alcaraz rides momentum to pursue his second US Open title, following his 2022 victory.

• Highlights of the Sinner-Alcaraz rivalry in 2025:
  • Four finals played, with Alcaraz winning three.
  • Sinner defeated Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final.
  • Alcaraz won Roland Garros and the Masters 1000 events in Rome and Cincinnati.
  • Both match legends like Djokovic and Nadal in major title pace.

US Open 2025 expectations

This year’s US Open promises fierce competition, with stars like Novak Djokovic, Iga Swiatek, and Aryna Sabalenka, alongside rising talents like João Fonseca, paired with Juan Martín del Potro. Sinner’s absence from mixed doubles opens opportunities for other teams, but his singles participation remains a highlight. The tournament’s mix of established names and new formats aims to fill Flushing Meadows’ stands.

Sinner’s recovery will be closely watched, as his fitness could impact his performance. His ability to overcome challenges, like his Australian Open win amid a doping controversy, positions him as a favorite, though his path to the title hinges on his health and preparation.