Serve On SI

Frances Tiafoe Calls Out "Comical" Officiating at French Open

Frances Tiafoe laughed at the lack of consistency after Lorenzo Musetti kicked a tennis ball that hit a linesperson.
Pat Benson|
Frances Tiafoe called out the lack on consistency in officiating after Lorenzo Musetti kicked a tennis ball at a line judge.
Frances Tiafoe called out the lack on consistency in officiating after Lorenzo Musetti kicked a tennis ball at a line judge. | IMAGO / PsnewZ

On Tuesday, Lorenzo Musetti defeated Frances Tiafoe in four sets during the French Open quarterfinal: 2-6, 6-4, 5-7, 6-2. Depending on a controversial call, the match could have ended in the second set.

During the second set, Musetti showed his frustration by kicking a tennis ball that inadvertently hit a linesperson. The Italian tennis star ran over to apologize, bur still received a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Unlike most larger tournaments, Roland Garros does not have electronic line-calling. However, fans (and it sounds like Tiafoe) believe that Musetti should have been disqualified.

The American tennis star did not come out and say it, but he was clearly upset about the inconsistent officiating.

The second question of Tiafoe's post-match press conference was about the unsportsmanlike conduct warning, and he let out a cynical laugh before slowly answering.

"Yeah, I mean, obviously, he did that, and nothing happened. I think that's comical. It is what it is. Nothing happened. So there's nothing really to talk about. Obviously, it's not consistent. So, it is what it is," said Tiafoe.

The no-call is a bitter pill to swallow for Tiafoe. Had Musetti been disqualified, Tiafoe would have cruised into the semifinal with fresher legs. Instead, it is the start of grass court season for Tiafoe.

Still, it was Tiafoe's best-ever campaign in Paris. He has now reached the quarterfinals or better in three of the four Majors (sans Wimbledon).

Tiafoe is now 17-13 and should move up from World No. 16 in the next ATP Rankings. Stay locked into Sports Illustrated's Serve On SI for all of your tennis news from the court and beyond.

More Tennis News

Lululemon's 'Pool Party' kits make a splash at the French Open.

Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek will face off in the semifinal at Roland Garros.

Jannik Sinner defends his "funny" Nike kit at the French Open.

Nick Kyrgios announces he will miss all of the grass court season.

Coco Gauff channels Spider-Man in recovery routine at the French Open.

Published
Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers professional tennis for Serve on Sports Illustrated, reporting on ATP and WTA events worldwide. From Challenger tournaments to Grand Slams, he brings readers in-depth coverage, daily recaps, and exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in the sport. With a decade of experience in sports journalism, Pat is recognized as a trusted voice in tennis media. You can contact him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

Share on XFollow Pat_Benson_Jr
Home/News