Photo Credit:Getty Images
World number one Jannik Sinner suffered a stunning second-round exit at the French Open after struggling physically during a dramatic five-set defeat to Argentina's Juan Manuel Cerundolo in extremely hot conditions in Paris.
Sinner entered Roland Garros as the overwhelming favourite for the men's title after dominating the tour in recent months, particularly on clay. Many expected the Italian star to challenge strongly for the trophy and complete the career Grand Slam, especially with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz absent through injury.
The 24-year-old appeared in complete control early in the match and moved within touching distance of victory after taking a two-set lead and moving 5-1 ahead in the third set. However, the momentum shifted dramatically as Sinner suddenly began struggling physically on court.
During the third set, Sinner looked increasingly uncomfortable and visibly fatigued. He lost three consecutive games and surrendered 11 straight points before requesting medical assistance. Courtside microphones reportedly picked up the Italian saying he felt dizzy and nauseous, and he later took a medical timeout before returning to play.
Although he managed to continue, Sinner never fully recovered physically. Cerundolo took advantage of the situation and completed an impressive comeback to win 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1, securing the biggest victory of his career and advancing to the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time.
The defeat was especially surprising given Sinner's remarkable recent form. He had entered the tournament on a 30-match winning streak and had claimed five consecutive Masters 1000 titles over the previous three months across both hard and clay courts.
Extreme heat has troubled Sinner before, including during this year's Australian Open where he suffered severe cramping in temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius. Paris also experienced unusually high temperatures during the tournament, with conditions reaching above 34 degrees Celsius.
After dominating the opening sets with powerful and accurate baseline play, Sinner's level dropped sharply as the match progressed. His shots lost pace, his movement became laboured and he frequently appeared uncomfortable between points, often stretching his legs and bending over his racquet.
Despite support from the crowd and encouragement from his coaching team, the Italian could not reverse the momentum. Cerundolo remained composed throughout the final stages and eventually sealed a memorable victory that ended Sinner's hopes of lifting the French Open title this year.
The result also leaves the men's draw far more open heading into the later rounds.
