Jannik Sinner’s Shocking Loss at the 2026 French Open
Jannik Sinner’s hopes for a career Grand Slam ended abruptly at the French Open. Playing in the second round, he faced Juan Manuel Cerúndolo of Argentina. Despite entering the match with 30 consecutive wins, Sinner lost 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1. The match took place under challenging conditions, with intense heat playing a significant role.
Sinner’s Struggles with Heat
Sinner’s difficulties with high temperatures are not new. Previously, he nearly lost at the Australian Open due to the heat. At the Shanghai Masters in October, full-body cramps led to a defeat against Tallon Griekspoor. As the tournament in Paris progressed, it became evident that the weather posed a significant threat to him once again.
Unlike the Australian Open, which has a heat rule allowing the roof to close, there was no such relief in Paris. Temperatures reached about 90 degrees, and the open Court Philippe-Chatrier offered no shelter. Sinner appeared in control during the first part of the match, leading 6-3, 6-2, 5-2. However, the demanding conditions led to a collapse, losing 18 consecutive points.
Treatment and Efforts to Recover
Sinner left the court for treatment, reporting dizziness to the umpire. Although he returned to play, he looked unsteady. Cerúndolo seized the chance, reducing the set difference to two sets to one. Sinner took a 10-minute break, hoping to regain energy, but it was insufficient.
The fourth set saw Cerúndolo displaying strong focus, saving break points at 1-1 and 3-1. Sinner was visibly struggling, unable to continue his previous dominance. Cerúndolo won the fourth set 6-1, and the pattern continued into the fifth set. He capitalized on Sinner’s weakened state, ensuring his victory.
Implications for the 2026 French Open
The unexpected defeat of Sinner suggests an open competition for the men’s title this year. With two-time champion Carlos Alcaraz also out, there isn’t a recent Grand Slam champion left in the draw. Only Novak Djokovic has past success in majors within the current lineup.
This outcome highlights Sinner’s challenge in dealing with extreme heat if he wishes to continue his pursuit of a major career. Last year’s narrow defeat against Alcaraz from a winning position adds to a concerning pattern for him at this tournament.
Meanwhile, Cerúndolo can celebrate a major career achievement with this win. His next match will be against either Spain’s Martin Landaluce or Vít Kopřiva from Czechia in the third round.