Frances Tiafoe was forced to retire from his fourth-round match at the Cincinnati Open against Holger Rune due to a lower back injury. The American, who reached the final last year, started strong with a 3-0 lead but began to struggle physically late in the first set. After receiving medical treatment and attempting to continue, he retired while trailing 6-4, 3-1.
Back spasms derail Tiafoe’s campaign
Tiafoe’s team encouraged him to push through, believing the medication would ease his spasms. However, the pain persisted, and after a code violation for launching a ball in frustration, he conceded the match. The injury raises concerns about his readiness for the upcoming US Open, where he is scheduled to compete in both singles and mixed doubles.
Holger Rune advances to quarterfinals
Holger Rune, the seventh seed, moves on to the quarterfinals following Tiafoe’s retirement. Rune had lost to Tiafoe in last year’s semifinals but showed resilience and control throughout the match. He will face either Taylor Fritz or Terence Atmane in the next round.
Rune reflects on performance and progress
After the match, Rune acknowledged the unfortunate way the contest ended but expressed satisfaction with his own level of play. He noted a slow start but quickly found rhythm, increasing his intensity and executing key shots. Rune’s form has been inconsistent this season, but his performance in Cincinnati suggests he is regaining momentum.
Implications for rankings and future matchups
With Tiafoe’s withdrawal, he is expected to drop out of the top 15 in the ATP rankings. Rune, currently ranked ninth, continues his pursuit of a deeper run at a Masters 1000 event. If he advances past the quarterfinals, a potential clash with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner could await in the semifinals.
Frances Tiafoe in 2025
Currently ranked no.14, Frances played his last match on the 13th of August when he had to retire when playing against world no.9 Holger Rune in the 4th round and the scoreline was 6-4 3-1 .
This season Tiafoe has achieved a 24-18 match record. Frances Tiafoe’s best result of the present season was reaching the final in Houston.