'He should have stepped back': Carlos Alcaraz faces explosive backlash after hugging sick Jannik Sinner during Cincinnati Open final
The Cincinnati Open men's singles event on Sunday, August 17, 2025, saw Carlos Alcaraz take the lead after Jannik Sinner fell ill in the first set. Following only five games, the Cincinnati, Ohio match ended with Carlos Alcaraz in front 5–0.
The Spaniard went toward Jannik Sinner, hugged him, and stood beside him to provide comfort rather than celebration. Still, ex-World No. 1
Andy Roddick
claims Carlos Alcaraz blundered by getting too close.
Andy Roddick says Carlos Alcaraz should not stand too close to a sick opponent
Andy Roddick spoke about the situation on his
'Served with Andy Roddick'
podcast on Monday, August 18, 2025. He explained that Carlos Alcaraz should have kept some distance once it became clear that Jannik Sinner was unwell.
Andy Roddick said, 'Carlos Alcaraz is a respectful and kind person, but in that moment, he should have stepped back and avoided the hug. When someone is sick, you do not stand close, you do not take photos, and you do not touch them.'
The 2003 US Open winner mentioned that coaches usually urge players to maintain their health ahead of major competitions.
The Cincinnati Open final was much-awaited since Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner had played exhilarating games earlier this year at the Italian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon.
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But after Jannik Sinner told the umpire that he couldn't continue because of his sickness, Sunday's conclusion ended in under twenty-five minutes.
Also Read:
'Does Anyone Really Care About Her?': Andy Roddick Delivers Sharp Message As Iga Swiatek Gets Disrespected Following Cincinnati Open Victory
Carlos Alcaraz sends heartfelt message and starts preparing for the US Open
Several hours after the final, Carlos Alcaraz posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), saying,
'I feel sorry for Jannik Sinner. No one likes to win because of a retirement. I hope he gets better soon.'
At the 2025 US Open, where Katerina Siniakova was set to play alongside Jannik Sinner also withdrew from the mixed doubles.
Carlos Alcaraz is preparing for the US Open already in New York. Tennis Channel and USA Today claim that to stop the spread of sickness, officials will carefully check on the health of competitors throughout the competition.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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