Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

Tennis

Watch worst attack of cramp ever as Mensik, 16, collapses on court and is forced off in wheelchair at Australian Open

AUSTRALIAN OPEN fans looked on in shock as youngster Jakub Mensik was struck down by debilitating cramps in the final of the boys’ singles.

The No.4 seed was forced to lie down flat on his front as his legs seized up in horrific scenes during the marathon three-setter.

Jakub Mensik was struck down by extreme cramps in the boys’ singles
He struggled to finish the marathon three-setter

Medics eventually escorted him off in a wheelchair

And the Czech starlet eventually had to be taken off the court in a WHEELCHAIR after the pain became too much to bear.

Mensik was facing top seed Bruno Kuzuhara in Saturday’s showdown on Rod Laver Arena.

Serving to stay in the match against his American opponent, Mensik won a lengthy rally to pull it back to 30-30.

But seconds later he was seen clutching his legs, which had begun to spasm horribly after almost four hours of action.

Mensik appeared to pull himself together and was able to serve again – albeit in intense discomfort.

And the 16-year-old eventually hit two consecutive double faults to hand Kuzuhara a 7-6, 6-7, 7-5 victory.

Winner Bruno Kuzuhara rushed to check on his opponent

Kuzuhara paid tribute to the injured Mensik after lifting the trophy

Any thought of a lap of honour was quickly forgotten as Mensik hit the deck for a second time and Kuzuhara sprinted round the net to check on his rival.

The young USA star could be seen shaking hands with the runner-up as medics rushed to his side.

He was soon wheeled from the court and proved unable to return for the trophy ceremony.

Afterwards the triumphant Kuzuhara said: “First of all, it’s an unfortunate way to win it.

“I’m wishing Jakub a speedy recovery. It was a great fight. We pushed each other right until the end.

“Great match, if you’re watching inside. Thanks man.”