A Dramatic Turnaround in Paris
The tennis world was left in disbelief this week as world number one Jannik Sinner suffered a shocking second-round exit at the French Open on Thursday. In a match characterized by a sudden and drastic shift in momentum, Sinner surrendered a commanding two-set lead to Argentina's Juan Manuel Cerundolo.
The top seed initially appeared to be cruising toward victory, leading 6-3, 6-2. Sinner had served twice for the match in the third set and seemed firmly in control at 5-4. However, as temperatures climbed above 30 degrees Celsius, the Italian's performance plummeted. Cerundolo, currently ranked world No. 56, capitalized on the opening, claiming the final three sets 7-5, 6-1, 6-1.
Physical Struggle and the "Wall"
Following the match, Sinner was candid about the physical toll the conditions took on him. "I didn't feel very well on court. I struggled, starting to feel very dizzy, very low on energy," Sinner admitted. "I was hitting very clean, very good, and then I just kind of hit the wall."
Observers noted Sinner's distress throughout the latter half of the match; the four-time Grand Slam champion was seen repeatedly bending over between points, utilizing ice packs and a hand-held fan during changeovers, and eventually requiring medical treatment. Sinner noted that he had never felt so physically depleted in a professional match, stating, "I don't remember the last time I felt this weak."
Impact on the Tournament
This defeat marks a significant turning point for the 24-year-old, ending a dominant 30-match winning streak that began in March. Sinner entered the tournament as the overwhelming favorite, especially following the withdrawal of defending champion Carlos Alcaraz due to a wrist injury. Sinner's recent form had been impeccable, having won five consecutive Masters 1000 titles—including Monte Carlo, Madrid, and Rome—and becoming only the second player after Novak Djokovic to complete the set of all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles.
While Sinner and Wu Yibing both exited the competition in the second round, Juan Manuel Cerundolo celebrates the biggest win of his career. By staying patient and extending rallies as Sinner's physical condition waned, Cerundolo has secured a spot in the third round.
With both Sinner and Alcaraz out of the running, the men's draw has been thrown wide open, creating a volatile and exciting landscape for the remainder of the tournament.
Reference(s):
Jannik Sinner stunned, Wu Yibing falls in French Open second round
cgtn.com
