Jakub Mensik, the 20-year-old Czech tennis player, collapsed on court in distressing scenes after winning his second-round match at the French Open, as an unseasonal heatwave in Paris pushed temperatures into the mid-30s Celsius.
Match and Collapse
Mensik, seeded 26th, battled for four hours and 41 minutes to defeat Mariano Navone 6-3, 2-6, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (13/11). He was clearly cramping in his legs before serving the final point but managed to hit a forehand winner before dropping to the clay. He lay on the court for several minutes, unable to get up.
Medical staff attended to him, placing ice towels around his neck and chest and an ice pack on his forehead before helping him to his feet. However, after walking only a few steps toward the locker room, he appeared close to collapse again and was placed in a wheelchair.
Heat Conditions at Roland Garros
Temperatures have been in the mid-30s all week, and the outside courts at Roland Garros offer virtually no shade. Former finalist Casper Ruud said he felt he was approaching heatstroke during his first-round match against Roman Safiullin. Ruud recovered but described feeling dizzy and like a zombie.
Forecasts indicate temperatures will not cool until Sunday, with some rain expected in the second week.
