Jannik Sinner was on the brink of securing the French Open title, needing just one more point.
However, some spectators believe he was subsequently impacted by the identical misfortune that befell Roger Federer during the Wimbledon final six years prior.
Fans are calling it “The Cursed Finger”.
Sinner held a two-sets-to-one lead over Carlos Alcaraz and was serving at 5-3 in the fourth set, holding three match points at 40-love on Alcaraz`s serve.
At that critical moment, some of Sinner`s fans in the stands were seen raising a single finger in anticipation of the World No. 1 sealing his inaugural Roland Garros championship.
A similar scene unfolded at Wimbledon in 2019 when Roger Federer had two match points on his own serve against his major rival, Novak Djokovic.
In both instances, fingers were raised prematurely, and in both instances, the tide turned against the player who was ahead.
Djokovic went on to win that epic five-set Wimbledon final, and Alcaraz mirrored that outcome on Sunday, claiming the French Open title in the tournament`s longest-ever final, finishing 4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6 after five hours and 29 minutes.
Understandably, fans quickly drew eerie parallels between the two matches.
One fan commented, “Is it another cursed finger moment?”, humorously adding laughing emojis.
Other fans taunted Sinner`s supporters following the dramatic turnaround.
The 23-year-old might also have felt fate was against him due to another event in the fourth set.
Displaying great sportsmanship, he conceded a point to Alcaraz after incorrectly telling the chair umpire that the Spaniard`s shot had been called out wrongly, only for replays to confirm the line judge`s call was correct.
Following the tough loss after being so close to victory, Sinner admitted how difficult it was to articulate his feelings.
The defeated finalist stated, “It`s easier to play than talk now. I`m still content with this runner-up trophy, though I won`t sleep well tonight, but it`s alright.”
Alcaraz complimented his opponent, acknowledging the high standard of play and their position at the forefront of men`s tennis.
He told Sinner, “Your level is incredible. It is a privilege to compete against you in every tournament and to be part of making history.”
