Left the court in a wheelchair despite winning... "This is crazy": French Open heatwave controversy sparks anger from Djokovic

*This content was translated by AI.

Players are increasingly voicing their suffering as the French Open is engulfed by a heatwave. Twenty-one-year-old promising talent Jakub Mensik (Czech Republic) collapsed on the court, and world-famous 'superstar' Novak Djokovic (39, Serbia) also expressed dissatisfaction with match operations in the sweltering heat.

The British Guardian reported on the 28th (Korean time) that "after Mensik collapsed following a five-set victory, he described the French Open's heatwave as 'crazy'" and added that "Mensik had to be transported by wheelchair to the locker room after the match. Djokovic also stated that more night matches are needed on hot days."

Earlier, on the 27th, Mensik defeated Mariano Navone (25, Argentina) in the second round of the French Open men's singles at Roland Garros in Paris, France, with a set score of 3-2 (6-3, 2-6, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6<11>). It was a hard-fought victory secured after more than four hours and 30 minutes of intense battle.

However, instead of roaring in victory, Mensik collapsed directly onto the court. After playing for an extended period in scorching heat reaching 32 degrees Celsius, his body could no longer withstand the strain. According to reports, Mensik exhibited symptoms of full-body muscle spasms and was only able to get up after receiving assistance from medical staff. He was then taken to the locker room on a medical wheelchair. It was a dizzying situation that could have easily escalated into a major incident.

Mensik stated, "Playing in this weather, especially under strong sunlight, is crazy." He added, "I was on the court for more than four hours and 30 minutes, but even during breaks, there wasn't enough time to cool down." He continued, "I respect that the rules are very strict, but in this kind of heat, it is completely crazy. The spectators must have thought, 'They should give us five or ten more seconds,' expressing his dissatisfaction."

In fact, many local media outlets are also focusing on the intense heatwave that has engulfed the French Open. The Associated Press reported that an unprecedented heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 35 degrees Celsius at the French Open venue, prompted the court management team to spray more water and calcium chloride than usual. This is a measure to prevent the clay court from drying out and cracking.

The heat was so severe that it put the court management team on high alert, inevitably placing a heavy burden on the players. Not only Mensik, but also Djokovic, voiced difficulties with match operations under the French Open's heatwave conditions.

Djokovic said, "Playing for over three and a half hours is extremely exhausting. The weather was also very hot, so a lot of physical energy was expended. It was a very difficult condition." He emphasized, "If you ask whether it is right to play past midnight, the answer is no. However, if there is extreme heat, such a choice could be considered."

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*This content was translated by AI.