Overview

• The Canadian and Cincinnati Opens have merged into a 12-day Masters 1000 event, prompting Sinner and Alcaraz to skip Toronto and sparking debate over player workload.
• World No. 1 Jannik Sinner returns from a nearly month-long recovery following his historic Wimbledon win and will make his Cincinnati debut on August 9 with a first-round bye.
• Sinner has adopted a protective sleeve on his right elbow for added stability during practice sessions, stressing that the joint itself is healthy.
• Despite endorsing the fan appeal of the extended format, Sinner said he still prefers traditional one-week tournaments for his preparation.
• Carlos Alcaraz, who said he “left the court happy” after his Wimbledon final loss, arrives in Cincinnati determined to reclaim the ATP’s top ranking.