In Paris, Jannik Sinner faced a stunning defeat in the second round of the French Open. The world No. 1 with 30 consecutive wins was beaten by Argentina’s Juan Manuel Cerúndolo, ranked 56th globally. The match concluded 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1, with Sinner’s struggle with the heat proving decisive.
This defeat wasn’t completely unforeseen. Since the tournament’s start, the main obstacle for Sinner seemed to be the conditions rather than his opponents. Earlier, in January, Melbourne’s heat almost eliminated him from the Australian Open. He also experienced severe cramps due to humidity at the Shanghai Masters in October, forcing him to retire against Tallon Griekspoor. This event marked his last loss at the ATP Masters 1000 level.
During the French Open, there was no respite. Temperatures approached 90 degrees, and without shelter on Court Philippe-Chatrier, Sinner neared collapse. Initially, Sinner appeared dominant, leading 6-3, 6-2, 5-2. However, a dramatic collapse occurred as the heat took its toll, resulting in his loss of 18 consecutive points. At a crucial moment, Sinner departed the court for treatment, citing dizziness, which allowed him to consult a trainer.
Cerúndolo took advantage of the situation, reducing the deficit to two sets to one. Despite a ten-minute break, Sinner couldn’t regain momentum. Cerúndolo excelled in defense, forcing Sinner to exert extra effort. Sinner, weakened and struggling, saw Cerúndolo secure the fourth set 6-1.
The final set followed a similar pattern. Cerúndolo absorbed Sinner’s attempts at powerful shots and engaged the world No. 1 in punishing rallies. Cerúndolo swiftly gained a 4-0 lead and maintained his advantage, eventually winning the set 6-1 and sealing the match. Sinner’s quest for a Grand Slam title, previously deemed likely, ended abruptly.
The 2026 French Open now appears wide open. With Carlos Alcaraz, the two-time defending champion, out along with Sinner, predictions are uncertain. No player in the draw has won a major in the last two-and-a-half years, except Novak Djokovic.
With the French Open seemingly unprepared for intense heat conditions, Sinner faces a significant challenge. Twice, he endured heartbreaking losses at the tournament, following last year’s defeat against Alcaraz despite holding championship points.
Cerúndolo celebrates the most significant victory of his career, advancing to face either Martin Landaluce from Spain or Vít Kopřiva from Czechia in the third round.