Arthur Rinderknech experienced a frightening moment at the Cincinnati Open on Monday when he collapsed on the court amid soaring temperatures. The French player struggled in the heat, with the thermometer hitting 32 degrees Celsius, which has affected many participants since the tournament started.
In his third-round match against Felix Auger-Aliassime, Rinderknech lost the first set but secured an early break in the second. However, after Auger-Aliassime equalized at 2-2, Rinderknech attempted to take a seat but suddenly fell backward. Despite briefly continuing, he was unable to win any more games and eventually retired, allowing the Canadian to advance to the round of 16.
Auger-Aliassime Assists After Rinderknech’s Collapse
As Auger-Aliassime was preparing to serve following a break, attention shifted when the umpire called out, “Arthur, are you okay?” Auger-Aliassime quickly moved over after seeing Rinderknech collapse and offered a towel. Medical staff rushed onto the court and began treating the player with ice.
Medical Staff Provide Immediate Care as Heat Takes Toll
The broadcast briefly cut to the crowd while Rinderknech received medical assistance. He managed to stand and continue playing for a short time but soon required further treatment during a changeover.
Sky Sports commentator Gigi Salmon described the incident: “This is Arthur Rinderknech just collapsing at the back of the court. Medical team came on to assist him. This is a match involving Felix Auger-Aliassime. They’ve been on court for just shy of two hours, an hour and 53 minutes.”
Salmon continued: “He was then treated back at his chair. You can see the man trying to figure out the air conditioning unit. Worrying scenes, signs and times. That’s the ice towel that he will put anywhere and everywhere to try and cool himself down.”
Having earlier caused an upset against No. 11 seed Casper Ruud, Rinderknech was broken in the following game and retired with Auger-Aliassime leading 7-6(4), 4-2.
Salmon concluded: “Arthur Rinderknech, who just a short while ago collapsed at the back of the court, was not able to continue. Before that point, he leant down, his hands on his knees, almost bent double, barely able to move right now.”
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