At the French Open, Jannik Sinner’s aspirations for a career Grand Slam faced an unexpected halt during the second round. The world No. 1, with a streak of 30 consecutive victories, succumbed to a surprising loss against Argentina’s Juan Manuel Cerúndolo. The 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1 defeat highlighted Sinner’s vulnerability to high temperatures.
Sinner seemed poised for success, being just four points away from victory. However, the intense heat became a formidable adversary. Similar circumstances almost ended his Australian Open run in January. At the Shanghai Masters, extreme conditions led to his retirement due to cramps, marking his last ATP Masters 1000 defeat before this.
Unlike in Melbourne, where the heat rule allowed for roof closure, no such relief was available in Paris. The near 90-degree weather on Court Philippe-Chatrier proved overwhelming for Sinner. Initially dominant, he led with set scores of 6-3, 6-2, and was on the verge of clinching the match. Yet, under the oppressive heat, he lost momentum and 18 consecutive points.
“A game away from victory, Sinner completely faded in the afternoon heat and lost 18 consecutive points.”
The situation deteriorated further when he left the court, feeling dizzy and needing medical attention. Although players can’t receive treatment for cramps, his condition warranted consultation with a trainer. Cerúndolo then capitalized on this downturn, closing the gap to two sets to one.
Despite a 10-minute break, Sinner’s condition did not improve significantly. Cerúndolo’s composed play led him to push ahead, eventually taking the fourth set 6-1. In the final set, Cerúndolo maintained focus and capitalized on Sinner’s diminished energy. He seized an early 4-0 lead, demonstrating strategic patience by pinning Sinner into prolonged rallies. This strenuous endurance test was beyond Sinner’s capacity to overcome.
The match concluded with Cerúndolo clinching a defining victory and advancing to face Spain’s Martin Landaluce or Czechia’s Vít Kopřiva. Sinner now faces a critical challenge with rising temperatures in future tournaments, particularly as he continues to chase an illustrious Grand Slam title.
The 2026 French Open remains wide open. With Carlos Alcaraz’s exit, Sinner was initially the favorite. However, no competitor in the current draw has secured a major in recent years, with Novak Djokovic being the only player with past success. Sinner’s continued struggle with heat management underscores a crucial hurdle in achieving his ambitions.
Meanwhile, Cerúndolo celebrates one of his career’s most significant wins, reflecting on his potential to progress further in the competition.