The Madrid Open has turned into an unexpected battleground, not just between rackets but against a mysterious stomach ailment that appears to be sidelining several high‑profile competitors. Players have reported symptoms ranging from nausea and vomiting to severe fatigue, prompting speculation that a bout of food‑borne illness or a viral infection is sweeping through the tournament grounds.
One of the most prominent stories involves American prodigy Coco Gauff. After advancing past Sorana Cirstea in a hard‑fought three‑set encounter (4‑6, 7‑5, 6‑1), Gauff was visibly distressed during the second set, summoning the on‑court physiotherapist.
She later vomited on the court and was taken aside for a blood‑pressure check by the medical team. The incident underscored how the illness was affecting even those in top form, as Gauff had previously secured a win over Cirstea before the episode escalated.
The problem is not isolated to Gauff. Several other marquee names have withdrawn or retired from matches, citing similar health concerns. Six‑time Grand Slam champion Iga Świątek, who had been a favorite to claim the title, was forced to retire against Ann Li after describing her condition as "zero stability and zero energy." Likewise, veteran Croatian star Marin Čilić pulled out of his scheduled clash with João Fonseca, attributing his absence to "food poisoning." American Madison Keys also withdrew, adding to the growing list of players who have been unable to continue. Rumors circulating among the players point to a culinary culprit: shrimp tacos.
While the exact source of the outbreak remains unconfirmed, many athletes have blamed the popular street‑food offering for their sudden malaise. In response, world number one Aryna Sabalenka, fresh from a fourth‑round triumph over Naomi Osaka, disclosed that she has adopted an ultra‑plain diet consisting solely of chicken breast, rice and salad.
Sabalenka explained that she is avoiding any potentially risky foods, especially the suspect tacos, in hopes of steering clear of the illness that appears to be circulating among the field. Sabalenka's match against Osaka was a dramatic showcase of resilience. After dropping the first set in a tiebreak (6‑7, 1‑7), she rallied to claim the next two sets 6‑3, 6‑2, demonstrating both physical and mental fortitude despite the surrounding health concerns.
Following her victory, she quipped, "So far, so good. I heard I have to avoid those tacos (laughing). I stick to the same food, same meal that I've been having since the very beginning of the tournament," highlighting the lengths players are going to protect their bodies.
The tournament organizers have been proactive, offering regular medical screenings and urging participants to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Nonetheless, the situation has sparked broader conversations about food safety protocols at large sporting events. With athletes' performance hinging on optimal health, even a minor lapse in kitchen hygiene can have far‑reaching consequences.
Beyond the immediate health scare, the episode has also impacted the tournament's schedule and fan experience. Several matches were either postponed or cancelled, and spectators have been kept informed through live updates on the Sky Sports app and the NOW streaming platform. The platform continues to provide comprehensive coverage, including live scores, match highlights, and expert analysis, ensuring that fans can follow the action despite the disruptions. Looking ahead, the remaining players are taking extra precautions.
Many have opted for simple, easily digestible meals and are avoiding street‑food vendors near the venue. The medical team remains on high alert, conducting regular checks and offering guidance on symptom management. While the exact pathogen—whether a norovirus, bacterial contamination, or another agent—has yet to be identified, the consensus is that vigilance and preventive measures are the best defense. In summary, the Madrid Open has become a case study in how a seemingly innocuous food item can trigger a cascade of health issues for elite athletes.
From Gauff's on‑court vomiting to Świątek's abrupt retirement, the tournament has seen a wave of withdrawals that underscore the fragile balance between peak performance and well‑being. As the competition progresses, players like Sabalenka are betting on disciplined nutrition and careful self‑monitoring to stay in contention. Fans can continue to enjoy high‑quality tennis coverage through Sky Sports' extensive streaming options, while the organizers work to ensure that the remaining matches proceed safely and without further health setbacks.