China's Wu Yibing collapses while leading ATP Washington opener
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It was the second notable health incident in a match within a month for China's Wu Yibing.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
WASHINGTON – China’s Wu Yibing collapsed and was helped off the court on Monday after retiring from his opening match against Japan’s Yosuke Watanuki at the Washington Open.
It was the second notable health incident in a match within a month for the 23-year-old, who needed a medical timeout after falling ill at the end of the first set in his opening-match Wimbledon loss to American Frances Tiafoe.
On the Washington hardcourts, Wu was leading 4-1 in the first set when he made a wobbly step, went to take a seat and collapsed forward over the back of a folding chair.
After being helped to his feet, he slowly sat down on the court with an umbrella quickly brought over to provide shade. The Chinese was later assisted in walking off the court.
A statement from the tournament said Wu retired due to illness.
At Wimbledon, Wu’s heart rate was reportedly measured at a massive 187bpm, although he claimed that it was down to the food he ate the night before.
“There was something wrong with the food I ate last night – I even felt like I was losing my consciousness out there,” he said then.
“I was better after my medical timeout, but it still affected my breathing. I feel good to play like I did, given my situation. I will go for a further check-up later.”
Fans have been concerned about his health and, on Monday after his second episode, many well wishes poured in for Wu on social media.
“Oh my God, Wu Yibing just fainted? Turned my head for a second and I see him slumped over... Hope my man is OK,” a viewer said.
Some have suggested that the intense heat could have played a part in the incident.
“Terrifying! It’s hot out there, but DC summer can get even worse. I hope the players stay safe this week,” another said.
A third wrote: “That’s quite distressing to see. Wish Yibing well.”
The Hangzhou native also played last week in Atlanta, beating France’s Corentin Moutet in his first match before losing to eventual champion Taylor Fritz, the world No. 9 from the United States, in the second round.
World No. 90 Wu won his first ATP title in February at Dallas, becoming the first Chinese player to capture an ATP crown and China’s highest-ranked player ever, reaching 54th in the world rankings in May. AFP
