Moutet, next opponent of Alcaraz: “The media are tough on French players”

Corentin Moutet will be Carlos Alcaraz’s opponent in the third round of the Australian Open 2026. The French tennis player has a personality that matches his tennis: rebellious. On the court, he is unpredictable, and in day-to-day life, he does not hesitate to speak out if he deems it necessary, as he did when expressing his opinion about the bad press French tennis players receive.

Moutet appeared on the podcast ‘The Elevate House’ to discuss various topics, highlighting his views on the media and the unfair treatment that tennis players in France endure. While his on-court controversies have made numerous headlines, his argument was more focused on a general issue persisting for generations past.

Corentin Moutet, upcoming opponent of Carlos Alcaraz, explains why the press is unfair to French tennis players

“The media is harsh on French players, very critical; they praise us when we play well and criticize us when we play poorly, placing heavy emphasis on the moment. I notice it a lot with the previous generation (Tsonga, Monfils…), the media kept saying that they hadn’t won a Grand Slam and therefore, had not had a great career. People actually believe it,” acknowledged Moutet.

His frustration doesn’t stem from criticism itself but from the consequences, claiming that “when I talk with people at dinners, they ask me why the French don’t win, and I tell them it’s because they don’t see it, because they do win. Tsonga reached the final in Melbourne, even Arnaud Clément made it to a Grand Slam final, all have reached Grand Slam semifinals, they have played the Masters.”

Since the early days of tennis, France has played a significant role in the sport’s development, showcasing new talents across generations that have left their mark in one way or another. However, according to Moutet, the press fails to acknowledge this fully. “They were exceptional athletes, and I believe the media does not give them enough credit; they do not support their athletes sufficiently,” he concluded.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Moutet, próximo rival de Alcaraz: “Los medios son duros con los jugadores franceses”