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Carlos Alcaraz took an unusual decision Friday at Roland Garros, where the World No. 1 suffered a severe bout of cramp early in the third set of his blockbuster semi-final clash against Novak Djokovic.
The Spaniard was struck by the cramp in his right calf as Djokovic converted game point to level for 1-1 in the third set of the pair’s meeting at the clay-court major. With another game left to play before the change of ends, Alcaraz was forced to make a tough call.
Novak Djokovic” />
Novak Djokovic checks on his opponent Carlos Alcaraz as the Spaniard suffers from cramp during the pair’s Roland Garros semi-final on Friday. Photo: Getty Images
Rather than continue and risk causing further damage to his leg, the 20-year-old opted to forfeit his service game in order to receive immediate treatment from the physio on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
What The Grand Slam Rulebook Says About Muscle Cramping:
A player may receive treatment for muscle cramping only during the time allotted for change of ends and/or set breaks. Players may not receive a Medical Time-Out for muscle cramping.
Djokovic therefore held a 2-1 lead when the players returned to court, and the Serbian went on to clinch the set 6-1 as Alcaraz played on with his movement heavily restricted.
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