A thrilling first-round encounter between Shang Juncheng and Corentin Moutet at the Madrid Open descended into controversy. Early on, Moutet clashed with the umpire after accusing a fan of verbal abuse and demanding their removal. He then claimed a fan spilled water on him mid-point in the third set. Adding to the drama, the Frenchman produced a bizarre moment in the decisive tiebreaker, attempting a foot return after his racquet fell while serving. Moutet ended up losing the marathon 3hr 59min match 6(9)-7, 6-2, 7-6(10) to the Chinese youngster.
“It’s gotta be the longest match I have ever played in my life,” said Shang after his victory. “On clay it was very tough physically against an amazing player like Corentin … It was almost the perfect match for me.”
