Jannik Sinner, the world No 1, suffered a stunning second-round defeat at the French Open on Thursday, losing 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1 to Argentina's Juan Manuel Cerúndolo. The Italian, who had not lost a match since February, was leading by two sets and serving for a place in the third round when he physically collapsed on Court Philippe-Chatrier. He blamed illness rather than the unprecedented heatwave that has gripped Paris, saying: 'It was warm, but not crazy warm. It was nothing against the heat, nothing against the weather. It was just me.'
Sinner's defeat is one of the most shocking in recent years. The 24-year-old had entered the tournament on a 30-match winning streak and became the first man other than Rafael Nadal to win all three clay-court ATP Masters 1000 titles in the buildup. However, he is known for struggling in high temperatures, and his midday scheduling raised concerns. Despite his protests, many observers believe the heat—which has reached 35°C on some afternoons—played a role in his physical deterioration.
The heatwave has divided the locker room. Jakub Mensik, the 26th seed, described the conditions as 'insane to play in' after collapsing with cramps and requiring a wheelchair following his five-set win. Casper Ruud, a two-time finalist, said he felt 'dizzy and like a zombie' during his first-round match. However, Ben Shelton noted that American players are more accustomed to such heat, as many train in Florida. Tournament organisers use wet bulb sensors to monitor temperatures, with matches eligible for suspension above 32.2°C, though none have been halted so far.
The hot weather has also altered playing conditions on the clay. The hardened court allows the ball to fly faster, favouring offensive players and those who generate heavy topspin, such as the retired 14-time champion Rafael Nadal. Meanwhile, Sinner's exit leaves the men's draw wide open, especially with Carlos Alcaraz, last year's champion, sidelined by a wrist injury that will also keep him out of Wimbledon.
