Jannik Sinner is out of the French Open in the biggest shock of the tournament so far after struggling with injury in a five-set loss to Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the second round in sweltering Paris conditions.
World number one Sinner was the heaviest favourite for the men’s title since the great Rafael Nadal in 2009, with no-one coming close to challenging him on the clay in recent weeks.
Sinner was bidding to complete the career Grand Slam at Roland Garros, and few expected him to fall short – but just as Nadal suffered an early exit 17 years ago, the Italian will now have to wait for another chance at Paris glory.
Sinner was two sets and 5-1 up before a remarkable change of momentum when fitness issues plagued his game.
The 24-year-old appeared laboured on court with a dejected expression as he lost the next three games, including 11 straight points, before calling for the trainer.
Sinner could be heard saying he felt “dizzy” and like he “wanted to vomit” and took a mid-game medical timeout before returning to court.
After dropping the third set, Sinner failed to regain his fitness as Argentina’s world number 56 won 3-6 2-6 7-5 6-1 6-1.
