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During an intense third-round match at the Shanghai Masters, Jannik Sinner was forced to retire against the 27th seed after experiencing severe cramps in muggy weather.

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

Harsh Environment Cause Problems in Shanghai

During the closing stages of a long and grueling season, conditions in the Chinese city have been especially tough, with competitors facing 90% humidity on Sunday.

Numerous athletes struggled badly in these challenging circumstances, even those set for the evening matches.

For Sinner, competing in the evening provided minimal respite from a determined Griekspoor, who pushed the contest into a third set.

By the third set, Sinner had visibly deteriorated in fitness, limping and cramping badly before taking the choice to retire.

Opponent's Response to the Surprising Victory

“This is definitely not the way you want to win,” said the Dutchman. “Extreme circumstances here in Shanghai all week already. I thought we were still a little bit lucky to play in the evening without sun, but over two and a half hours on the clock, halfway of the third set. Sorry for him, I hope for his speedy recovery.”

Tournament Implications

Carlos Alcaraz had pulled out from Shanghai before the event due to an foot issue suffered during his championship campaign in Japan earlier this week.

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

Rising Star’s Success in Beijing

In other news, the American talent continued her remarkable breakthrough season by winning the most significant trophy of her career at the Beijing tournament.

The young star defeated Linda Noskova 6-0, 2-6, 6-2 to claim the title.

Anisimova has now won two premier-level tournaments this season—at the Beijing event and Doha competition—while also reaching two grand slam finals at Wimbledon and the Flushing Meadows.

After being positioned as far down as No. 41 in winter, she now sits at No. 4 in the women's tour standings and third in the WTA race.

Her performance has secured her a spot in the year-end championships in Riyadh for the maiden appearance in her professional life.

Overcoming Challenges

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

“It’s been a challenging weeks for me here, for sure,” she admitted. “I believe like I’ve learned a lot about myself. I think I can take a lot of positives and look at it as a lot of growth for me just figuring out ways to face difficult situations and challenge myself in moments when it feels like I can’t go any further. I believe like in that regard I realized that I’m stronger than I think. That’s a major achievement for me.”