Cameron Norrie’s title defence in Lyon ended with a one-sided loss to Argentine Francisco Cerundolo within the semi-finals of the ATP Tour occasion.
Extra regarding than the 6-3 6-0 defeat, although, was Norrie’s bodily situation, with the British No 1 clutching his abdomen at factors in the course of the second set.
Norrie is Britain’s major hope for fulfillment on the French Open, the place he is because of begin his marketing campaign on Monday in opposition to eccentric Frenchman Benoit Paire.
The 27-year-old gained his fourth ATP title in Lyon final yr however dropped serve within the opening recreation in opposition to Cerundolo and by no means seemed like getting again into the competition.
It appeared he would possibly retire when he headed to his bench in the course of the opening recreation of the second set however Norrie did a minimum of handle to complete the match.
Talking afterwards, Norrie stated: “He performed higher than me and that confirmed within the rating. I used to be disillusioned with my stage in comparison with the opposite two matches.
“I’ve had just a few matches earlier than the French Open, which is precisely what I got here right here to do. It was a troublesome approach to exit however he performed higher than me and deserved the win.”
Famend for his bodily prowess, Norrie should now consider making an attempt to make sure he’s totally match for the yr’s second Grand Slam occasion.
