Turkish tennis player Altug Celikbilek has reportedly been rushed to hospital after suffering a brain haemorrhage on the court during a match.
World No.451 Celikbilek was in action against Yanki Erel in the semi-finals of an ITF event in Tunisia when the incident occurred.
Celikbilek collapsed after playing the first game of his match at the M15 Monastir 2024 Tennis Tournament as medics rushed onto the court.
The 28-year-old, who was the top seed at the event, suffered a brain haemorrhage – according to Corriere Dello Sport – and is currently being evaluated in hospital for transportation to his native Turkey for surgery.
The Turkish Tennis Federation said in a statement: ‘The health condition of our national athlete Altug Celikbilek, who fell ill during a match at the M15 Monastir tournament held in Tunisia, is being closely monitored by our Federation and the Tunisian Embassy.
‘All necessary support is being provided to our athlete and his family. We wish our athlete a speedy recovery.’
Ipek Senoglu, a retired Turkish player, posted on social media on Sunday: ‘Send your prayers and energy to @altugcelikbilek.
‘He underwent surgery after the brain hemorrhage he had in the past and the scan came back clean, but it is critical how he will wake up now. Enka, his family and friends are with him.’
On Monday, Senoglu added: ‘This morning the doctor examined Altug, gave him good news and now his mother is inside, they are talking a little bit.
‘He has different tests and check-ups today, hopefully good news will come from them as well.’
Following Celikbilek’s mid-match retirement, fellow Turkish player Erel went on to lift the trophy in Monastir and dedicated the title to his countryman.
Celikbilek’s highest ranking to date is world No.154, which he achieved in February 2022.
He has won two ATP Challenger titles to date and clinched six ITF singles trophies.
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