Sinner's physical condition is not as strong as Alcaraz or Djokovic.

15/10/2025 07:40:00 PANDATV

Jannik Sinner's retirement at the 2025 Shanghai Masters further strengthens the opinion that he is "somewhat physically weak," according to former Italian player Paolo Bertolucci.

The world No. 2 was forced to withdraw due to cramps while trailing Tallon Griekspoor 3-2 in the third set during their third-round match at the ATP Masters 1000 in Shanghai last week. After a close loss in a long second set, Sinner began to show obvious fatigue and had difficulty moving because of cramps early in the deciding set. He decided to retire after losing his service game in the fifth game.

Sinner was one of seven players who had to quit mid-match in Shanghai, where high temperature and humidity created harsh playing conditions. Unable to complete his match in Shanghai, Sinner, who had won this tournament in 2024, set an "undesirable record" by becoming the first defending Masters 1000 champion to retire mid-match more than once in history.

The Italian player had previously retired while trailing 0-5 against Carlos Alcaraz in the final of the 2025 Cincinnati Masters, the most recent Masters event before Shanghai, when he was also the defending champion.

Commenting on Sinner’s withdrawal in Shanghai, former player Paolo Bertolucci said the four-time Grand Slam champion lacks the endurance of Alcaraz or Novak Djokovic.

Sinner’s physical condition is not as consistent as Alcaraz’s or Djokovic’s.

"It’s unfortunate because Sinner had a big chance at this tournament," the former world No. 12 said on Sky Sport Italy. "He’s a bit fragile. Sometimes cramps, sometimes stomach pain, then elbow issues, blisters, hips... Overall, too many problems are starting to emerge. He doesn’t have the physical stability that Djokovic or Alcaraz possess, which is now quite clear and no longer surprising." However, he stressed that there is no need to worry too much: "I repeat, although this is a sad situation, we are talking about the world No. 2 player."

Bertolucci also criticized Sinner’s heavy schedule late in the season, especially his choice to play at the China Open in Beijing. "All this happened within just a month and a half," he said. "I wonder if such a demanding stretch of tournaments is really necessary? Was it essential to go to Beijing? I already know the answer: points, ranking, the No. 1 position... but is it really worth it?"

Bertolucci concluded that although Sinner’s season was shortened by an "unfair" doping ban, the core issue remains: he needs to rebalance his schedule and better manage his fitness if he wants to sustain top form over a long period.

P.Chi

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