Jannik Sinner reassures everyone after minor scare in Monte Carlo

Sigh of relief for Jannik Sinner. “All days are not equal, I was a little tired, I will try to recover for Friday,” he reported after defeating Machac in three sets. The important thing today was to try to win, on Friday I will be able to play great tennis again. Before the match I felt great, in the second set I had a drop in energy: it can happen. I tried to find a way to beat my opponent, I’m glad I succeeded.”

In the tie-break Machac again took advantage of Jannik Sinner’s second serve, immediately took over the exchange and went ahead with the mini-break. At 3-2 in his favor, the Czech also handled the service turn well and it came down to the changeover at 4-2. At that moment Sinner touched his back, an obvious sign of physical discomfort.

Machac kept pushing and stretched to 5-2. Then came a double fault by the Azure as well, paving the way for a 6-2 lead. Sinner struggled to serve consistently, clearly affected by the back problem, and the Czech took advantage all the way, closing the tie-break 7-3 and taking the match to the third set.

In the third set, at the change of court at 3-2, Jannik called the doctor and explained that he felt a feeling of weakness. He took a tablet and then returned to the court regularly. Instead, the physical therapist arrived for Machac, who had his left arm massaged. Danger passed for both: Sinner recovered better than his rival and went on to win 6-3.