Sinner’s Shanghai Masters Run Ends Early as Cramps Force Retirement

Jannik Sinner’s pursuit of the Shanghai Masters title ended abruptly in the third round against Tallon Griekspoor. The Italian player was forced to retire due to severe cramping in his right thigh. The score was 6-7(3), 7-5, 3-2 in favor of Griekspoor when Sinner’s physical condition made it impossible for him to continue. The match lasted nearly two and a half hours. Sinner showed signs of distress in the second set, repeatedly using ice towels during changeovers to cope with the high humidity. The conditions in Shanghai have been particularly challenging, with many players struggling. Griekspoor and Djokovic, who played later in the evening, both commented on the difficult weather. Sinner had displayed impressive form, reaching the final in Beijing just days prior to Shanghai. His withdrawal, combined with Alcaraz’s earlier withdrawal, reshapes the tournament, making Djokovic the likely favorite. Sinner’s immediate concern is recovery and returning to competition. The match itself was tightly contested, with Sinner winning the first set tiebreak before Griekspoor leveled the match. The Dutch player secured a notable victory under challenging conditions.