Andre Agassi criticized Jannik Sinner’s hydration strategies following the world No. 1’s shocking second-round exit at the French Open, according to the New York Post. Sinner, favored to win, lost 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-1, 6-1 to Juan Manuel Cerundolo on May 27, 2026.
What happened
During the match at Roland Garros, Sinner took a medical timeout after leading two sets and 5-1 in the third set. He was overheard expressing feelings of dizziness and nausea to his trainer, later admitting he had “hit a wall” and had “no energy.” Despite this, Sinner stopped short of attributing his collapse directly to the high temperatures.[3]
Agassi, an eight-time major champion, remarked on the match during a discussion on TNT. “There’s a difference between being fit and being prepared,” he stated. He emphasized, “I have to point to a flaw in that preparation, because there’s something you can do about it.” Agassi suggested that athletes should hydrate extensively before matches rather than during them.[1]
Why it matters
Sinner’s exit from the tournament has significant implications for his career and the championship’s competitiveness. With him gone, the men’s draw has opened up, providing opportunities for other players who have yet to claim a Grand Slam title.
Agassi’s comments highlight the importance of proper preparation in extreme conditions. He noted that Sinner must address his hydration strategies to avoid future issues that could derail his aspirations in major tournaments.[2]
Background
On May 20, 2026, Jannik Sinner competed in the French Open final, lasting five and a half hours on the same court. His experience that day starkly contrasts with the rapid decline he faced less than a week later against Cerundolo, raising questions about consistency in his performance and preparation.
What’s next
In the wake of Sinner’s withdrawal, the tournament will continue with the semifinals scheduled for June 3, 2026, where second seed Alexander Zverev will face Jakub Mensik and Matteo Arnaldi will compete against Flavio Cobolli in an all-Italian matchup.
