American tennis star Frances Tiafoe showcased resilience and determination in a dramatic first-round Australian Open match against France’s Arthur Rinderknech, battling through illness to emerge victorious in a grueling five-set clash. Despite vomiting on the court during the fourth set, Tiafoe rallied to claim one of the toughest wins of his career, with a final scoreline of 7-6 (6-2), 6-3, 4-6, 6-7 (4-7), 6-3, in a match that lasted over four hours.
The dramatic episode unfolded late in the fourth set, with Tiafoe visibly struggling. He first vomited behind the baseline while preparing to receive a serve, prompting a pause in the match as medical staff tended to him. Later, he vomited again courtside, just feet away from Australian commentator Rennae Stubbs.
“Frances having to stop here. Whether that was in or out, he was not moving,” ESPN commentator James Blake observed. Stubbs added, “But he just threw up on the court, so this is terrible for him. Sometimes it can help, but this is not going to be easy for him to get back out there.”
Despite his struggles, the world No.16 managed to recover, regroup, and deliver a gutsy performance. Though he lost the fourth set in a tiebreak, Tiafoe came back strong in the decisive fifth set, breaking Rinderknech’s serve and sealing the match. He capped off the emotional victory by gifting his racquet to a delighted fan in the crowd.
Speaking to ESPN after the match, Tiafoe revealed he had been feeling unwell before the tournament and considered withdrawing. However, the prestige of a Grand Slam motivated him to push through.
“Any other tournament, I would have pulled out, but it’s a slam,” the 26-year-old explained. “I’m in the second part of my career, and these are the tournaments I care about the most. Whatever it takes.”
The match was briefly interrupted as Australian Open staff cleaned the court, ensuring player safety. Reflecting on the incident, Blake speculated that a combination of nerves and the demanding conditions contributed to Tiafoe’s sickness.
Tiafoe’s determination and composure in the face of adversity have once again highlighted his fighting spirit, cementing his place as one of the most inspiring figures in tennis.