Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw in the round of 16 at the 2025 Shanghai Masters, failing to retain his championship.
Recently, Jannik Sinner—the reigning ATP 1000 Shanghai Masters champion—retired in the third round against Tallon Griekspoor while trailing 6-7, 7-5, 3-2. The match took place under harsh hot and humid conditions, causing the 24-year-old player to suffer severe cramps, nearly immobilizing him by the end of the match.
Sinner had just won the ATP 500 title in Beijing and only a few days later had to compete in Shanghai to defend his crown. The intense schedule combined with the sweltering weather drained his body. Despite his efforts to fight back, the world No. 2 was forced to stop the match and accept defeat, becoming the former Shanghai Masters champion.
Immediately after the match, Sinner returned to Monte Carlo to rest and recover. He will undergo medical examinations to better manage his muscle tightness and cramping issues, which have recurred throughout the season.
According to Sinner’s team, the Italian player did not sustain any serious injuries. His retirement was due to exhaustion and muscle tightness, not muscle or joint injuries. This is a positive sign, suggesting the 2001-born player can return soon after a brief recovery period.
Sinner is expected to be ready to participate in the Six Kings Slam exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he will open against Stefanos Tsitsipas on October 15. Afterwards, he aims to compete in major tournaments such as Vienna, Paris Masters, ATP Finals, and Davis Cup Finals. However, it is inevitable that the current world No. 2 will have to miss one of the two European events, especially since his chances of contesting the year-end No. 1 spot diminished after the loss in Shanghai.
The latter half of 2025 has seen Sinner make a strong comeback following a 3-month suspension, capturing his first Grand Slam grass-court title and winning in Beijing, reaffirming his status as a top world player. Despite physical setbacks, the 24-year-old aims to maintain consistent form in the final phase of the season, where every point is crucial in the ranking battle against Carlos Alcaraz.