Shanghai, October 6(HS): Defending champion Jannik Sinner was forced to withdraw from the Shanghai Masters on Sunday after sustaining a foot injury during his third-round encounter against Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor.The World No. 2 began strongly, taking the opening set 7-6(3) with a pair of aces in a tense tiebreak.

However, Griekspoor fought back admirably, saving three break points early in the second set and breaking Sinner’s serve in the 11th game to claim the set 7-5, extending the match past midnight.Trouble struck in the third set when Sinner appeared to be in visible discomfort during the fourth game.

Limping and grimacing in pain, he struggled to reach routine shots and was broken to trail 2-3. Despite his efforts to continue, the Italian eventually retired from the match, leaving the court with assistance. The score stood at 6-7(3), 7-5, 3-2 in Griekspoor’s favor at the time of retirement.Preliminary reports suggest the injury could be serious, casting doubt over Sinner’s participation in the upcoming tournaments of the ATP calendar.

The 23-year-old had entered the event as one of the top favorites after a strong season capped by victories on hard courts earlier this year.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar