diff --git a/sdl.c b/sdl.c
index ceb00ddf67..981922102d 100644
--- a/sdl.c
+++ b/sdl.c
@@ -318,7 +318,7 @@ static void sdl_refresh(DisplayState *ds)
             sdl_process_key(&ev->key);
             break;
         case SDL_QUIT:
-            reset_requested = 1;
+            qemu_system_shutdown_request();
             break;
         case SDL_MOUSEMOTION:
             if (gui_grab) {