Rybakina retires, Cobolli’s candy boost fuels upset at Cincinnati Masters
A late‑stage injury ends Rybakina’s run, Swiatek moves on and an Italian teenager uses sweets to overturn a top‑seeded American.
Elena Rybakina pulled out of her quarter‑final against Iga Swiatek at the Cincinnati Masters after a brief rally at 40‑all in the opening set. The world No 2 had trailed 4‑1, consulted the trainer and quit after playing one more point.
Why the withdrawal matters
The injury raises fresh concerns ahead of the US Open, which begins in New York on 30 August. A win would have taken Rybakina to the top of the rankings for the first time, as Aryna Sabalenka was knocked out by 20‑year‑old Sara Bejlek earlier in the tournament.
"I was feeling anxious watching the whole situation," Swiatek said. "Health is always the priority. This is an important tournament, but the US Open is the US Open. I hope she is ready for that."
Pegula’s record‑breaking run
Jessica Pegula will face Swiatek in the semi‑final after edging past Amanda Anisimova in a three‑set thriller, 6‑2, 4‑6, 7‑6 (7‑4). The 32‑year‑old is the fourth player since 2009 to reach five Masters 1000 quarter‑finals after turning 30, joining Li Na, Serena Williams and Svetlana Kuznetsova.
"I know I have a good record against her, but literally every single match is like it was today," Pegula said after sealing the win on her first match point.
Cobolli’s sweet surprise
In the men’s draw, Flavio Cobolli overturned a set down to beat Tommy Paul 2‑6, 6‑3, 6‑4, after requesting a handful of chocolate‑filled sweets from the bench. "A sweet with chocolate makes me happy," Cobolli explained. "I’ve tried it in doubles so why not singles?"
Paul, who had upset top seed Alexander Zverev a day earlier, fought back to 4‑3 in the final set, saving four break points, but Cobolli held his nerve to close the match.
"It was a difficult day, but I’m proud of my effort, my game and my mental strength," Cobolli added. "My shape is 100 percent. I may play golf tomorrow on a day off to relax but I will be ready to fight again."
What’s next
Swiatek now eyes the Cincinnati title before heading to the US Open, while Pegula’s confidence is high despite a reported hip niggle. Cobolli’s unexpected victory makes him the 11th different Italian to reach a Masters semi‑final in the event’s 36‑year history, and his form could make him a dark horse in New York.
The US Open will test whether Rybakina can recover in time, and the rankings shuffle could see Swiatek or Sabalenka retain the top spot depending on performances in the final weeks of the season.
