Huge Alcaraz vs Jnnik Sinner ATP Finals clash suspended due to medical emergency

The ATP Finals final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was halted for 11 minutes after a spectator fell ill during the opening 14 minutes of the encounter

Action at the ATP Finals clash between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner was suspended for 11 minutes after a spectator became unwell during the opening 15 minutesof the match.

The final was forced to pause following a “disturbance” in the crowd, understood to be a medical incident. Defending champion Sinner was about to serve when Alcaraz spotted the disruption in the stands and informed the umpire, who immediately requested medical help.

The episode is reported to have taken place at the summit of the upper tier in Turin, though it was subsequently confirmed that the spectator was well, a message relayed to both players by the tournament director.

At that moment, the final was 14 minutes old with the Italian under strain serving at deuce in the fourth game, with Alcaraz holding a 2-1 advantage.

Supporters offered a round of applause as the medical team and the spectator, who had regained their footing, made their way down to the concourse.

However, play was halted for more than 10 minutes after fans drew the attention of officials, leading chair umpire Renaud Lichtenstein to request: “Can I get medical staff up there please?”.

Throughout the interruption, Sinner was chatting to those positioned courtside. Lichtenstein could be heard in conversation with the Spaniard, telling him: “We are awaiting an update.

“That’s what I think, as soon as I know something, they might need to… we will wait. They’re still helping the person but we will wait.”

Following the incident at the baseline, Alcaraz made his way to the net where he joined Sinner as both players observed the ongoing medical procedures.

Sky Sports commentators highlighted the challenges faced at the Turin venue when providing emergency care, citing the cramped conditions in the upper sections.

After an 11-minute suspension, play resumed with Sinner successfully holding his serve to level the match at 2-2. During the opening set, with the Spanish player leading 5-4, Alcaraz required a medical timeout to address concerns with his right hamstring.

This week has been overshadowed by medical incidents, with two spectators dying in separate incidents after suffering cardiac arrests. The individuals, aged 70 and 78, experienced “sudden cardiac incidents” according to Tuesday’s official statement.

“The FITP and ATP express their deepest condolences following the tragic passing of two spectators today during the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin,” the statement read.

“The two individuals, aged 70 and 78, had come to the Inalpi Arena to attend the matches. Both suffered sudden cardiac incidents at different times during the day. On-site medical and emergency personnel responded immediately, providing all possible assistance.

“Despite prompt intervention and subsequent transfer to hospital, unfortunately, both sadly passed away. The FITP and ATP extend their heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the two spectators.”