Wuhan Open star accuses organisers of ‘treating us like a machine’ in strong statement | Tennis | Sport

Magdalena Frech has suggested that Wuhan Open organisers treated the players like “machines” after they battled through brutal conditions. The world No. 53 reached the last 16 in Wuhan this week, helped when Karolina Muchova was forced to retire on one of many stifling hot days, and eventually suffered a straight-set defeat to Laura Siegemund.

After bowing out of the tournament, Frech shared an impassioned statement speaking out about the “extreme conditions” and explained that the tournament became a fight for survival.

The Polish star knew how tough the heat and humidity could be, as No. 12 seed Muchova retired from their second-round match on Wednesday with Frech leading 7-6(1) 4-1. And it was Frech’s turn to struggle when she faced Siegemund a day later.

The 27-year-old led by a break in both sets but ultimately suffered a 6-4 7-6(2) defeat, and she has now taken to social media to hit back at those who weren’t happy with her performance, explaining that she had to prioritise her health.

Frech wrote: “In response to the avalanche of negative ratings and comments after the last game, I would like to inform you that sometimes I regret it, but I am not a machine. Although I have the impression that the organisers treat us like this when setting a game plan.

“Playing 3 days in a row from 13-16, in extreme conditions, unfortunately it affected my health, which I always put first. Playing at 36 degrees, with high smog, heated concentrate and extreme humidity is acceptable if it does not happen every day.

“Unfortunately, the accumulation of effect has consequences. I’ve never felt anything like yesterday, despite a few years spend on the tour.

“Overpowering lack of energy and constant struggle of negative thoughts that tried to stop my body from another effort. Hitting the ball into the court was a great challenge. It’s no longer a tennis match, just a fight for survival!

“To the fans, thank you for your support, your presence is of great importance!”

Frech wasn’t the only one who struggled in the heat in Wuhan. On Monday, play was suspended on the outdoor courts for around 90 minutes due to extreme weather, and matches on the centre court had to be played under the roof so the air conditioning could be used.

Muchova and former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko retired with ‘heat illness’ earlier in the week, while British No. 1 Emma Raducanu had to forfeit her first-round match while trailing Ann Li 6-1 4-1.

She called the doctor and had an examination before retiring, citing dizziness. And Dayana Yastremska and Clara Tauson both retired with injuries.