SHANGHAI: Jannik Sinner’s title defence at the Shanghai Masters came to a painful end on Sunday as the world number two was forced to retire mid-match against Tallon Griekspoor due to severe cramp in humid conditions.
Griekspoor was leading 6-7(3) 7-5 3-2 in their third-round clash when Sinner succumbed to the cramps after more than two and a half hours of intense battle. The Italian, who had beaten Griekspoor in all six of their previous meetings, began to struggle in the second set, resorting to ice towels during changeovers to cope with the heat.
Visibly limping in the decider, Sinner eventually had to be assisted by the physio before making the difficult decision to retire.
“This is definitely not the way you want to win. Brutal conditions here in Shanghai all week,” said Griekspoor. “I’m sorry for him and wish him a speedy recovery.”
The result marks a disappointing end to Sinner’s campaign as he looked to defend his Shanghai crown, while Griekspoor moves into the next round after showing resilience in testing conditions.
