Unexpected knockout sparks crisis: Jannik Sinner’s exit throws Roland Garros into turmoil

After a year filled with dramatic storylines and surprise outcomes at Roland Garros, the men’s tournament at this year’s French Open felt entirely different. From the start, it seemed like one player was clearly ahead of the rest.

With Carlos Alcaraz sidelined by injury, world number one Jannik Sinner came into Roland Garros as the overwhelming favourite — not unlike how Rafael Nadal once dominated this event.

Sinner arrived in Paris on an unbeaten streak stretching back to February, having picked up five straight ATP Masters 1000 titles along the way. Three of those came on clay.

The Italian made a quick start to his campaign in Paris, easing past home favourite Clement Tabur in his opening match.

And he looked to be coasting through again when he took a two-set lead and went up 5-1 against Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the second round.

But once again, fitness issues got in his way. Cerundolo took full advantage, coming from behind to win in five sets and sending shockwaves through the draw.

Roland Garros faces a new challenge without Jannik Sinner

The 2025 French Open will mark the first time since the 2023 US Open that a Grand Slam champion won’t be named Sinner or Alcaraz.

The dominance of the so-called ‘new two’ at majors over the last two years has excited some, and bored others, but neither star now being in contention for the Roland Garros crown has meant we’re in for the most compelling Grand Slam in years.

That’s been clear from early on. And with some weak attendances to start this year’s tournament, there will already be concern behind closed doors that this trend could get worse.

Because while fans at home may enjoy seeing fresh faces battling for their first major title, ticket holders may not feel as compelled to head down to Chatrier when it’s not Sinner or Alcaraz leading the way.

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