SHANGHAI (Reuters) -Jannik Sinner’s bid to retain his Shanghai Masters title ended in agonising fashion on Sunday when the world number two was forced to retire mid-match against Tallon Griekspoor due to debilitating cramp in humid conditions.

Griekspoor was leading the third-round clash 6-7(3) 7-5 3-2 when Sinner suffered cramp in his thigh, forcing him to retire after more than 2-1/2 hours on court.

“This is definitely not the way you want to win. Brutal conditions here in Shanghai all week,” said Griekspoor, who had lost all six encounters against Sinner prior to Sunday’s match.

“I thought we were still a little bit lucky to play in the evening without the sun. But two hours and 36 minutes on the clock, middle of the third set… I’m sorry for him, I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Sinne

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