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In a dramatic Round of 32 match at the Shanghai Rolex Masters, Jannik Sinner was compelled to withdraw against the 27th seed following experiencing severe cramps in muggy conditions.

Their battle ended with the world No. 2 trailing Griekspoor 7-6(3), 5-7, 2-3 when the Italian succumbed to physical issues.

Harsh Environment Cause Problems in Shanghai

During the closing stages of a extended and grueling tour, playing environments in Shanghai have been especially tough, with competitors confronting 90% humidity on Sunday.

Numerous athletes faced significant difficulties in these demanding situations, even those scheduled for the night session.

In Sinner's case, being placed in the evening provided minimal respite from a determined opponent, who pushed the match into a deciding set.

During the third set, the Italian had clearly declined in fitness, limping and suffering cramps badly before making the choice to withdraw.

Opponent's Response to the Surprising Victory

“This is definitely not the way you want to win,” commented Griekspoor. “Extreme circumstances here in Shanghai all week already. I thought we were still a little bit lucky to play in the night without direct sunlight, but two hours, 36 minutes on the clock, halfway of the final set. I feel for him, I wish him quick recovery.”

Impact on the Competition

The world No. 1 had withdrawn from Shanghai before the competition due to an ankle injury sustained in his championship campaign in Japan recently.

The Italian's withdrawal offers a major chance for the other competitors, including the Serbian star, who progressed to the round of 16 with a 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 victory over Yannick Hanfmann.

Rising Star’s Success in Beijing

In other news, Amanda Anisimova carried on her remarkable breakthrough season by capturing the biggest title of her professional journey at the Beijing tournament.

She overcame her Czech rival in a three-set thriller to secure the championship.

Anisimova has now won two premier-level tournaments this year—at the China Open and Doha competition—while also making two major finals at the All England Club and the US Open.

After being positioned as low as No. 41 in February, she now sits at No. 4 in the WTA rankings and third in the season-long race.

This has secured her a place in the year-end championships in Saudi Arabia for the maiden appearance in her career.

Triumphing Over Obstacles

Her progress over the recent week has been especially gratifying given she underwent dental surgery on the day she traveled to China.

“It has been a challenging period for me here, for sure,” she said. “I believe like I’ve learned a lot about myself. I think I can take a lot of good things and look at it as a lot of growth for me just learning ways to handle certain challenges and push myself in times when it seems like I can’t go any forward. I feel like in that sense I realized that I’m stronger than I imagined. That’s a major achievement for me.”