Frenchman Terence Atmane was refused treatment for cramp during a tense US Open encounter with Spain’s Jaume Munar before losing a two-set lead in a five-set first-round battle.
Atmane had taken the opening two sets but began suffering severe cramping, including in his left hand, forcing him to serve several times with his right hand and use underarm serves.
The drama intensified early in the deciding set when Atmane called for the tournament physiotherapist. The official declined to treat him after determining that he was suffering from cramp rather than an injury eligible for a medical timeout.
“I tell him I have pain. Why is he saying no?” Atmane said during the exchange. “I know the rules, that’s why I’m asking, that’s why I’m calling you, because I know I cannot get treatment for cramp. It was not cramp, it was pain. Do you understand?”
The Grand Slam medical regulations state that players may receive treatment for muscle cramping only during changeovers or set breaks, and cannot be granted a medical timeout for the condition. The decision on whether the problem is cramp or another treatable medical condition rests with the physiotherapist, with the tournament doctor able to assist where necessary.
Atmane also asked for the physiotherapist’s name during the heated exchange, but was unable to halt Munar’s recovery. The Spaniard eventually prevailed 6-7, 3-6, 6-1, 7-6, 7-5 after a match lasting four hours and 54 minutes.
The defeat extended Atmane’s wait for a first Grand Slam match victory, while Munar advanced to face fellow Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech in the second round.
