🔗 Share this article

In a dramatic Round of 32 encounter at the Shanghai Masters, the Italian star was forced to retire against Tallon Griekspoor following experiencing severe cramps in muggy weather.

The match ended with the world No. 2 behind his Dutch opponent 6-7 (3), 7-5, 3-2 when he succumbed to physical distress.

Harsh Environment Cause Problems in China

Throughout the final weeks of a extended and grueling tour, conditions in Shanghai have been particularly severe, with competitors confronting extreme mugginess on Sunday.

Numerous athletes struggled badly in these demanding circumstances, including those scheduled for the evening matches.

For Sinner, competing in the evening offered little relief against a tenacious opponent, who dragged the match into a third set.

By the third set, Sinner had visibly deteriorated physically, hobbling and suffering cramps severely before taking the choice to withdraw.

Griekspoor's Reaction to the Unexpected Win

“This is definitely not the way you want to win,” commented Griekspoor. “Extreme conditions here in Shanghai all week already. I thought we were still a little bit fortunate to play in the night without direct sunlight, but two hours, 36 minutes on the clock, middle of the third set. Sorry for him, I wish him speedy recovery.”

Tournament Implications

The world No. 1 had pulled out from the tournament prior to the event because of an foot issue sustained during his championship campaign in Japan recently.

The Italian's withdrawal now presents a major chance for the other competitors, including Novak Djokovic, who advanced to the fourth round with a 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 victory over Yannick Hanfmann.

Anisimova’s Breakthrough in Beijing

In other news, Amanda Anisimova carried on her incredible breakthrough season by winning the most significant trophy of her career at the Beijing tournament.

The young star overcame Linda Noskova in a three-set thriller to claim the title.

She has now earned two WTA 1000 titles this year—at the Beijing event and Doha competition—while also reaching two grand slam finals at Wimbledon and the US Open.

After being ranked as low as 41st in winter, she now sits at fourth in the WTA rankings and No. 3 in the season-long race.

This has earned her a spot in the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia for the maiden appearance in her career.

Triumphing Over Obstacles

Her progress over the past nine days has been particularly gratifying given she had wisdom tooth surgery on the same day she flew to China.

“It’s been quite a few weeks for me here, for sure,” she admitted. “I feel like I’ve learned a lot about myself. I think I can take a lot of positives and view it as a lot of growth for me just learning ways to handle difficult situations and challenge myself in moments when it feels like I can’t go any forward. I believe like in that sense I learned that I’m stronger than I imagined. That’s a huge win for me.”