German tennis star Daniel Altmaier was written his name into the Roland Garros history books after pulling off an incredible comeback to defeat No 8 seed Jannik Sinner in just under five-and-a-half hours. Sinner had been one of the favourites to go far in the competition and looked on his way to the third round after going 2-1 up on sets.
The Italian then had two match points in the fourth, but Altmaier dug deep to force a decider with the viewing public on the edge of their seats. After a tense final set, Altmaier hit his 10th ace of the match to dump Sinner out of the French Open with the German star slumping to his knees and letting out a huge roar in celebration.
It ended up being the fifth-longest match in Roland Garros history at five hours and 26 minutes. The crowd were on their feet to applaud both players for an incredible battle, but Altmaier was given a huge cheer when he stepped up for his on-court interview.
The 24-year-old had already been seen crying while sitting in his seat, looking over at his team in the corner. And he struggled to hold back his emotions once again when standing in front of the microphone.
The crowd inside Court Suzanne Lenglen were on their feet chanting Altmaier’s name in a bid to show their appreciation for his efforts. The chants were so loud at one point that the interviewer had to stop her questions to the German tennis ace.
Asked how he managed to pull the comeback off, Altmaier said with a smile: “I just love the game of tennis, that’s why. In the past months, me and my team, we have been putting so much effort together. I can just say to everybody, we play here but behind us we have such a strong team and that’s why this victory is a team effort.”
Altmaier was eventually able to wipe away the tears of happiness, admitting his win will be “one to remember”. And he also paid credit to the crowd who showed him huge support throughout the match.
“Personally, I love clay and I love the crowd and everything,” Altmaier added. “The emotions were crazy. Without fans, tennis wouldn’t be the same.
“I just appreciate every single one who puts the effort, who enjoys being here and who has a good time – that’s the most important – and I think we have to do it throughout the world everywhere.”
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