Flavio Cobolli broke down in tears and was forced to retire in the middle of his second-round match at the Vienna Open, prompting rival Matteo Berrettini to rush over and comfort him.
Tearful Retirement at 2-5 Down
The No. 4 seed was facing countryman Berrettini when he began sobbing while 2-5 down in the first set. Berrettini immediately came over to Cobolli's bench as his opponent struggled to contain his emotions.
Despite the gesture, Cobolli could do nothing but sob as the umpire officially announced the match was over. The scenes were described as utterly devastating by those watching.
Match Officially Called Off
The retirement brought an abrupt end to the encounter, with Berrettini advancing as a result of the withdrawal. Further details on the nature of Cobolli's injury or reason for retirement have not yet been provided.
The Vienna Open continues with the remaining second-round fixtures, while Cobolli's fitness will be a concern for the rest of the season.
