Aug 18, 2025 4:58 PM EDT
Carlos Alcaraz has built a reputation not just for his jaw-dropping tennis, but for the way he carries himself when the spotlight shines brightest. Win or lose, the Spaniard has a knack for showing humility and respect and his latest Masters 1000 triumph was no different.
The clash with Jannik Sinner had all the makings of another chapter in their thrilling rivalry, but instead, it ended far sooner than anyone expected after Sinner was forced to retire with an injury. While Alcaraz added another big title to his resume, he made sure the focus wasn’t just on the trophy, taking to social media to send a classy message to his rival and wish him a quick recovery.
Jannik Sinner’s Cincinnati final came to an abrupt end after less than half an hour. Struggling with illness, the world No. 1 tried to push through but just couldn’t find his rhythm. Down 0-5 in the opening set against Carlos Alcaraz, he was forced to call it quits.
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After the game, Alcaraz took to Instagram to pen a message to his rival. He said, “I’m so sorry for Jannik! Nobody likes to win because their opponent retires, especially in a final like this. Wishing you a speedy recovery! Very happy with my week in Cincinnati and feeling ready for the US Open!”
What Next for Carlos Alcaraz?
Carlos Alcaraz added another huge milestone to his resume on Monday, picking up the Cincinnati Open title and pulling further ahead of rival Jannik Sinner in the chase for tennis’ “Big Titles.” Alcaraz won his 13th Big Title and a 9-5 edge in their head-to-head battles.
At just 22, Alcaraz has already claimed eight Masters 1000 trophies more than anyone on tour right now outside of Novak Djokovic and he’s now 8-1 in Masters 1000 finals, with his only loss being last year’s epic against Djokovic in Cincinnati.
This season alone, he’s already lifted six titles, four of them Big Titles, including wins in Monte-Carlo, Rome, Roland Garros, and now Cincinnati. That’s a new personal best for him, and with the US Open, Shanghai, Paris, and the ATP Finals still ahead, there’s plenty of room to add more.
He’s now tied Thomas Muster with eight Masters 1000s and is the second-youngest to reach that mark, just behind Rafael Nadal. What’s more, he heads into New York with over 50 wins this year — the first player to do so since Djokovic and Murray in 2015. Not bad for someone who’s only just getting started.
About the Author
Kevin Binoy
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Kevin Binoy is a contributing writer to the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.