"It feels like an oven," Auger-Aliassime talks about the heat in Cincinnati

Félix Auger-Aliassime will compete in the Round of 16 at the Cincinnati Masters 1000 for the fourth time in the last five seasons. The Canadian benefited from the withdrawal of France's Arthur Rinderknech (7-6, 4-2 ret.), who was severely affected physically by the heat in Ohio.

After collapsing at 2-2 in the second set, Rinderknech, who had resumed the match, ultimately retired a few minutes later. The world No. 28 appeared at a press conference after the match and discussed the playing conditions.

"From my perspective, it was very sudden. We spoke after the match, and he told me that today he didn’t feel well from the start, and that was the case throughout the match.

He tried to keep fighting. For me, winning that first set was crucial. Despite the situation, he was playing at a high level, serving very well. At 2-2, he collapsed and stayed on the ground for a while.

At first, as a player, you shift from trying to win and compete to wondering if what’s happening is serious. You ask yourself if you should approach, if there’s something urgent you can do, if you should call someone to help quickly.

In the end, he’s okay, but it was worrying. It feels like an oven—I feel it for the fans too. We’re moving and focused on winning, but the crowd sits for long periods, and so do our teams.

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, wear hats, and cool down as much as possible," Auger-Aliassime warned after speaking to Tennis World Italia. He will face Benjamin Bonzi for a spot in the quarterfinals.