Jannik Sinner, world number one and reigning US Open champion, faces uncertainty in defending his title in New York after withdrawing from the Cincinnati Masters 1000 final on August 18, 2025, due to illness. The Italian, who was facing Carlos Alcaraz, left the court after just 23 minutes, with the score at 5-0 in the first set, stating he felt unwell. His withdrawal from the US Open mixed doubles event the following day, August 19, heightens concerns about his physical condition for the final Grand Slam of the year, starting August 24. The high fever and flu-like symptoms reported the night before and during the Cincinnati match put the 24-year-old in a race against time to be fit for Flushing Meadows.
The situation was worsened by the intense heat and humidity in Cincinnati, conditions Sinner described as challenging. Despite the setback, the tennis player remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of Grand Slams in his career. His 2025 record, with 31 wins and only 4 losses, solidifies his status as a favorite, but health is now the main obstacle.
- Key points about Sinner’s situation:
- Withdrew from Cincinnati final after 23 minutes of play.
- Pulled out of US Open mixed doubles event the next day.
- Reported high fever and flu-like symptoms before and during the match.
- Focus on recovery for the US Open start on August 24.
The Italian, who didn’t drop a set in Cincinnati until the final, now needs to adjust his preparation for the biggest stage in tennis.
Recovery under pressure
Jannik Sinner’s health has become the focal point ahead of the 2025 US Open. After withdrawing from the Cincinnati final, he also opted out of the mixed doubles event, where he was set to partner with world number one in doubles, Katerina Siniakova. The decision was confirmed by the US Open on August 19, with American duo Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison taking their spot. Sinner, visibly unwell, apologized to fans in Ohio, noting he tried to play despite feeling ill since the previous night.
Steven Buchwald, a Manhattan-based mental health expert, analyzed the situation, noting that slower movements and pauses between points suggested Sinner was under physical and psychological stress. He indicated that recovery from a mild viral infection could take three to five days, but more severe cases might require up to two weeks. To maximize his chances, the tennis player should prioritize rest, hydration, and progressive training.
- Sinner’s recovery strategies:
- Adequate rest to alleviate physical stress.
- Consistent hydration to counter fever effects.
- Light, gradual training to regain form.
- Stress management techniques, such as visualization.
Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, expressed optimism, stating the player is expected to resume training soon, with a return to the courts scheduled for August 21, according to ESPN.
Rivalry with Alcaraz in focus
Sinner’s withdrawal in Cincinnati handed the title to Carlos Alcaraz, world number two, intensifying their rivalry. In 2025, they faced off four times in finals, with Alcaraz winning two clay-court matches and Sinner prevailing at Wimbledon. Together, they have claimed the last seven Grand Slam titles, establishing themselves as the leading figures of the new generation in men’s tennis.
The Cincinnati setback gives Alcaraz a psychological edge for the US Open. While Sinner defends a significant number of ranking points from his 2024 title, Alcaraz, who fell in the second round last year, has a chance to overtake the world number one spot with a strong performance in New York. The prospect of another final showdown heightens fan anticipation.
Preparation for the final Grand Slam
Sinner has shown resilience throughout his career, overcoming challenges like a doping controversy earlier in 2025 and minor injuries, such as a hip issue. His Cincinnati campaign, before the final, was flawless, with wins without dropping a set, including against Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals. The Italian, who turned 24 on August 16, also celebrated qualifying for the ATP Finals, reinforcing his consistency this season.
Sinner’s training at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the main US Open court, is confirmed for August 21, signaling his recovery is on track. The session, per the tournament’s official schedule, marks the start of his intensive preparation. He emphasized the significance of Grand Slams, stating they define his season and career.
- Factors favoring Sinner at the US Open:
- Return to training on August 21.
- 2025 record of 31 wins and 4 losses.
- Titles at Wimbledon and US Open in 2024.
- Experience overcoming challenges like injuries and extreme heat.
Impact on mixed doubles tournament
Sinner’s withdrawal from the US Open mixed doubles, which began on August 19, caused changes in the event. His pairing with Katerina Siniakova was highly anticipated, combining the world number one in singles with the doubles leader. Their replacement by Collins and Harrison, who face Belinda Bencic and Alexander Zverev in the first round, altered the event’s dynamics, which features a condensed format with short sets and a $1 million prize.
The mixed doubles tournament includes other big names like Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, as well as Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz. Despite Sinner’s absence, the event remains attractive, but his withdrawal disappointed fans expecting to see him compete before the main draw.
Race against time
Sinner’s recovery is critical not only for his US Open participation but also for maintaining his world number one ranking. As the current leader, he faces pressure to hold off Alcaraz’s challenge. The Cincinnati final, though cut short, showed Sinner’s determination to compete despite adverse conditions.
The extreme heat, cited by Sinner as an aggravating factor, also drew criticism from other players and analysts. Ivan Ljubicic, former coach of Roger Federer, questioned the tournament’s scheduling under such challenging conditions, especially before a Grand Slam. The situation underscores the need for adjustments in the tennis calendar to protect player health.
- Risks of extreme heat for tennis players:
- Increased physical and psychological stress.
- Higher likelihood of dehydration and fatigue.
- Impact on performance in subsequent tournaments.
- Possibility of withdrawals at critical moments.
Expectations for New York
Sinner enters the US Open as a favorite, but his physical condition will be decisive. The tournament, starting August 24, promises to test the Italian’s endurance as he aims for a second Flushing Meadows title. His recovery ability, combined with experience on big stages, could be the difference. The rivalry with Alcaraz, who won the US Open in 2022, adds an extra layer of excitement.
The Italian has proven capable of overcoming adversity, as seen in his Wimbledon victory after an epic clash with Alcaraz. Fans hope that with rest and light training, Sinner will be ready to lead the men’s draw. His preparation at Arthur Ashe Stadium will provide a clear indication of his physical and mental readiness for the challenge.