World number one Jannik Sinner endured a physically gruelling Italian Open semi-final against Daniil Medvedev, throwing up on the court and appearing visibly unwell.
Rain halted proceedings in the two tennis stars' contest, with the home favourite appearing visibly uncomfortable.
Play was eventually suspended with Medvedev holding an advantage on his service game whilst trailing 4-2 in the third set.
Sinner had entered the contest chasing a remarkable 33rd consecutive victory at ATP Masters 1000 level.
Sinner made a blistering start to the encounter, racing into a commanding 4-0 advantage over his Russian opponent.
The Italian claimed the opening set 6-2 in dominant fashion, but warning signs started to emerge.
Sinner found himself 3-0 down against a resurgent Medvedev, having to fight back on serve despite clear physical difficulties.
The 24-year-old frequently used his racket for support between points and was seen vomiting beside the court.
Jannik Sinner threw up on the court during his semi-final clash in the Italian Open
|REUTERS
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Medvedev maintained relentless pressure before securing the crucial break to level the match with a 7-5 second-set triumph.
Sinner received medical treatment in the third set, having broken serve to lead 3-2.
Medvedev challenged the decision with chair umpire Aurelie Tourte, apparently suggesting his rival was benefiting from preferential treatment for cramping.
A physio was observed massaging Sinner's leg whilst the Italian consumed pickle juice, a well-known remedy for muscle cramps.
Sinner physically struggled throughout the contest against Medvedev
|REUTERS
ATP regulations prohibit treatment for cramping, classifying it as a conditioning matter rather than an injury.
Sky Sports commentator Jamie Murray supported Medvedev's objections, saying: "He is getting treated for cramp essentially, he's getting his quads massaged.
"It happens a lot, obviously, I don't agree with it personally. He's getting his other quad massaged now, so it's a tough one to explain that you have got two injured quads and it's not cramp while you're sipping on your pickle juice.
"Players exploit that every week, it's not a unique situation. Medvedev knows what is up. Paul Ness, the ATP physio, knows what is up as well."
Medvedev complained about Sinner receiving treatment for cramp
|REUTERS
The world number one has claimed victory in the previous five Masters 1000 events, establishing himself as the overwhelming favourite heading into Roland Garros, particularly given Carlos Alcaraz's injury absence.
Should Sinner overcome his physical difficulties and defeat Medvedev when play resumes, he will meet Casper Ruud in the final after the Norwegian demolished Italy's Luciano Darderi 6-1, 6-1.
Meanwhile, Medvedev is in the hunt for his second Rome title.
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