At Roland Garros,
The episode seems very anecdotal given the continuation of the fight between Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic, in the semi-finals of Roland-Garros. But the context in which the Spaniard’s injury and the treatment provided by the physiotherapist arise deserves clarification. At 1-1, on his serve, Carlos Alcaraz suddenly had cramps, preventing him from finishing his face-off or even playing the next point. The world number 1 then decides to brave a ban by asking for a medical time-out excluding a change of side (or end of set).
The rule providing that he loses all his points until the change of sides, a bit like an early lead, the Spaniard conceded the break. What did not please the public of Chatrier, who launched into an impossible bronca at the time of the announcement of the chair umpire Aurélie Tourte… who took the time to re-explain everything well at the microphone so that everyone understands.
No impact on the sequel
At the next change of sides, Alcaraz again requested medical help, this time without sanction, since the physio had the right to intervene. Questionable or not, the rule had no impact on the rest of the match. Too diminished, the young Iberian lost in four sets against Novak Djokovic, who will play for a 23rd Grand Slam title.