Jannik Sinner overcame physical issues to beat Holger Rune in the Australian Open round-of-16 and later claimed that he knew he would "struggle" because he woke up feeling unwell.
ADVERTISEMENT
With the two players tied to one set apiece, the defending champion appeared to increasingly start struggling with his movement and overall abilities on the court.
After his hands were seen tremblingand the Italian called for both a physio and the doctor at 3-2 in the third set, he had a short conversation with the two.
Then, Sinner left the court for an 11-minute medical timeout.
When he returned, he broke Rune in the eighth game for a 5-3 lead before serving out for the third set in the following game.
In the fourth set, the Italian claimed two breaks to complete a 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-2 win.
Sinner: It was a strange morning, I knew I'd struggle
"Today, this morning was a strange morning, because I didnt even warm up today. I was trying to go on court as fit as I could be. I knew in my mind before the match that I would struggle today," the world No. 1 said.
ADVERTISEMENT
"Game-wise, I played well, I served very well. There were quality shots that gave me the confidence to fight on, and of course, the time off the court, the doctor and I talked a little bit."
When asked in his post-match press conference to explain what was exactly the issue - whether it was some kind of an illness or just conditions - Sinner refused to share any details.
I dont want to talk so much how I felt today,. I was not feeling really well. I think we saw that today, I was struggling physically. Came here as late as possible," he said.
Meanwhile, Sinner plays against home favorite Alex de Minaur for a place in the Australian Open semifinal.
