Jannik Sinner’s campaign at Roland Garros has come to an early end after a surprise defeat to Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the second round.
Sinner struggled with both fitness and the heat during his match against the Argentine, which added to an already disappointing start for his performance in Paris.
The world number one called for a medical timeout during the match on Philippe Chatrier, which he lost 6-3, 6-2, 5-7, 1-6, 1-6.
After spending three hours and 36 minutes on court in hot conditions, Sinner admitted feeling dizzy following the loss. Cerundolo eventually pulled through late in the fifth set.
Sinner was widely expected to go deep into the tournament, but took to social media afterwards to address fans following his unexpected exit.
Sinner responds after surprising Roland Garros exit
Sinner posted a few photos from Paris on Instagram after the defeat, writing: “It was not my day today. We’ve had an incredible year so far but now I need some time off.
“Thank you all for the amazing support and congrats to [Juan Manuel Cerundolo] on a solid match. See you soon. Au revoir, Paris.”
While Sinner’s struggles with the heat were a clear factor in how the match unfolded, Cerundolo deserves recognition for how he handled himself on clay throughout the contest.
The Argentine kept his composure and played smartly, holding his own even as Sinner tried to rally in the later stages of what became a test of endurance as much as skill.
With Sinner and Alcaraz out, who’s next to take charge on the tour?
Sinner has earned a break after a long stretch of matches, and few would argue he hasn’t put in the work. He’s coming off a 30-match unbeaten run that included five straight ATP Masters 1000 titles.
That kind of consistency is rare. But after his recent setback, Sinner clearly needs some time away from the game. This isn’t the first time health issues have disrupted his season, either.
He won’t be back on court for a while, and Carlos Alcaraz is also sidelined as he recovers from a wrist injury. That leaves a noticeable gap at the top of men’s tennis.
Both players are making sensible decisions to look after their bodies during an important stage in their careers. And with them both out, there’s room for someone else on tour to step forward.
This year’s Roland Garros will guarantee a new champion for the first time in several years. Sinner and Alcaraz have shared all nine Grand Slam titles since 2024, but that run ends here.
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