Coco Gauff Overcomes Illness to Advance at Madrid Open

The Madrid Open, held in Spain’s capital, took place this week. In the week of the tournament, several players reported gastrointestinal illness, prompting concerns about a contagious stomach virus spreading among competitors.

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A stomach virus affected several players at the Madrid Open. Iga Swiatek withdrew after reporting illness, and Liudmila Samsonova gave a walkover in the fourth round. Competitors cited the illness as a factor in performance.

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Saturday – Iga Swiatek announced a stomach virus was circulating after withdrawing from her third-round match.

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Sunday – Coco Gauff experienced vomiting during her third-round match against Sorana Cirstea, took a medical timeout, and secured a 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 victory.

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• Coco Gauff – third seed, vomited during third-round match.

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• Iga Swiatek – withdrew after third set vs. Ann Li.

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• Liudmila Samsonova – 20th seed, withdrew before fourth round.

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• Jannik Sinner – noted infection risk.

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• Sorana Cirstea – Gauff’s third-round opponent.

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Down a set and a break, Gauff left the court to vomit in the second set, took a medical timeout, and said she felt “a bit better.” She then won 4-6, 7-5, 6-1, advancing to face 13th seed Linda Noskova in the fourth round.

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Coco Gauff told Sky Sports she believed she had “the Madrid stomach virus” and that vomiting helped her feel better. Iga Swiatek confirmed a stomach virus was circulating in the locker room after her withdrawal. Jannik Sinner said players share dining rooms and gyms, increasing infection risk.

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“I don't know how I got it done,” — Coco Gauff, player

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“Just dealing with a lot of trying to keep my food down.” — Coco Gauff, player

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“It was just a tough match.” — Coco Gauff, player

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“I don't spend a lot of time here.” — Jannik Sinner, player

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At least three high-profile players were directly impacted: Iga Swiatek withdrew, 20th seed Liudmila Samsonova gave a walkover, and third seed Coco Gauff fell ill but completed her match. A fourth-round walkover was also recorded when Samsonova could not play.

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Gauff’s quick recovery kept her competitive for a fourth-round match against Linda Noskova. The outbreak raises concerns about player health and possible disruptions later in the tournament.

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No official diagnosis or confirmed count of affected players has been released, and the virus’s origin remains unverified, still uncertain.

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Gauff will meet Linda Noskova in the fourth round. Officials have not announced further health measures, and players remain vigilant.

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