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In a dramatic Round of 32 match at the Shanghai Rolex Masters, Jannik Sinner was compelled to withdraw versus the 27th seed following experiencing debilitating muscle cramps in humid weather.

Their battle concluded with Sinner trailing Griekspoor 7-6(3), 5-7, 2-3 when the Italian gave in to physical distress.

Brutal Conditions Cause Problems in Shanghai

Throughout the closing stages of a extended and arduous tour, conditions in the Chinese city have been particularly severe, with competitors facing 90% humidity on Sunday.

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

In Sinner's case, competing in the night offered little relief against a determined Griekspoor, who dragged the contest into a third set.

During the final set, Sinner had clearly declined in fitness, hobbling and suffering cramps severely before making the choice to withdraw.

Griekspoor's Reaction to the Surprising Victory

This is certainly not the way you want to win,” said the Dutchman. “Extreme circumstances here in this city all week already. I believed we were still a somewhat lucky to play in the evening without sun, but two hours, 36 minutes on the clock, middle of the third set. Sorry for him, I wish him quick recovery.”

Tournament Implications

The world No. 1 had withdrawn from Shanghai before the event due to an ankle injury sustained during his championship campaign in Japan recently.

Sinner’s retirement now presents a major chance for the remaining field, including Novak Djokovic, who progressed to the fourth round with a 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 victory over Yannick Hanfmann.

Anisimova’s Breakthrough in China

Elsewhere, the American talent continued her remarkable breakthrough season by winning the most significant trophy of her professional journey at the China Open.

She overcame Linda Noskova 6-0, 2-6, 6-2 to claim the title.

Anisimova has now earned two WTA 1000 titles this season—at the China Open and Qatar Open—while also reaching two major finals at Wimbledon and the US Open.

After being ranked as low as No. 41 in winter, she now sits at fourth in the WTA rankings and No. 3 in the WTA race.

This has secured her a spot in the year-end championships in Saudi Arabia for the first time in her career.

Triumphing Over Obstacles

Her progress over the recent week has been particularly gratifying given she had dental surgery on the same day she flew to Beijing.

“It has been a challenging period for me here, for sure,” she admitted. “I believe like I’ve learned a lot about myself. I think I can take a lot of positives and view it as a lot of progress for me just learning ways to handle difficult situations and push myself in times when it feels like I can’t go any further. I believe like in that regard I learned that I’m more resilient than I think. That’s a huge win for me.”