Drama, Heat, and Injuries Defined Wednesday at Roland Garros

The heat in Paris is literally getting to everyone competing at Roland Garros. Usually, the French Open is known for its style and culture, but today was full of tense moments — probably exacerbated by the unseasonably high temperatures.

Wednesday will be remembered for the heat, drama, and injuries. Below are the six most intense moments that had little to do with tennis.

Jakub Mensik Heat Collapse

The 26-seed Jakub Mensik defeated Mariano Navone in a hard-fought, five-setter: 6-3, 2-6, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (13-11). The match lasted 4 hours and 41 minutes, leaving Mensik unable to get off the court. Navone crossed the net to congratulate Mensik and also help him get up.

Mensik required medical attention while lying on the clay court with ice packs all over his upper body. He was eventually helped to his feet and was able to walk off the court before requiring a wheelchair. After taking an ice bath, Mensik was able to speak with the media.

Elena Rybakina Upset

The unseeded Yuliia Starodubtseva upset second-seed Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-1, 7-6(4). It was a heartbreaking loss for Rybakina, who was eyeing her third Grand Slam title. Adding insult to injury, Rabakina had to deal with more controversy involving her coach, Stefano Vukov, after the match.

A reporter asked Rybakina about Vokov leaving the coaches' box early. Rybakina took exception to the question, then explained that Vukov had been feeling unwell over the past few days.

Novak Djokovic Mad at Crowd

The third-seeded Novak Djokovic is the elder statesman in tennis and takes it upon himself to hold all parties accountable for anything that hurts the sport. A fan yelled during Djokovic's serve, and he was visibly angry at the lack of decorum.

Djojovic paced around the court and yelled, "They don't have respect, no respect, no respect." The 24-time Grand Slam champion went on to defeat Valentin Royer in four sets: 6-3, 6-2, 6-7 (7), 6-3.

- Author: Pat Benson, SI.com

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