Jannik Sinner's shocking defeat at the French Open has raised concerns about his health, with former player Greg Rusedski suggesting that a virus may be to blame.
Sinner was favourite to win the title at Roland Garros, but lost to Juan Manuel Cerundolo in a five-set thriller.
Rusedski, who was a finalist at the 1997 US Open, believes that Sinner's heat-related fatigue and cramps were symptoms of a virus that he may have contracted in Australia.
'I heard he had a virus in Australia that was holding him back and these viruses can linger,' Rusedski said on his podcast.
'When you are winning matches as easily as he has been, you can cruise through matches, but the heat got him in Paris. That's the only explanation that makes sense to me.'
Sinner himself reported feeling sick on the morning of the match, but the exact nature of his illness remains unknown.
Rusedski's comments have sparked speculation about Sinner's health and whether he will be able to overcome his current struggles.
