Stoppage for Corentin Moutet at the Australian Open. Physically diminished, the Frenchman lost in 3 sets against the American revelation Learner Tien, 19 years old. An early elimination which leaves a bitter taste for French tennis in Melbourne…
This is a hard blow for French tennis. Corentin Moutet, 23, was eliminated in the 3rd round of the Australian Open this Saturday, beaten in 3 sets by the young American Learner Tien, only 19 years old. A defeat that looked like disillusionment for the Habs, who seemed physically diminished during the meeting.
A promising start to the match before disillusionment
However, everything started well for Corentin Moutet. After a tight first set, the Frenchman had his chance in a marathon tie-break. But it was ultimately Learner Tien who had the last word, winning 12-10. A first hard blow for Moutet, who seemed to lose the thread in the second round.
And things did not get better for the 64th in the world. Victim of a nasty slide at the end of the race, he remained on the ground for many seconds before seeking treatment. Visibly injured in the hip, he nevertheless insisted on finishing the match, gritting his teeth.
Learner Tien, the revelation of the tournament
In front, Learner Tien confirmed all the hopes placed on him. The young American, who defeated Daniil Medvedev in the second round, demonstrated a astonishing maturity for his age. Solid on his feet, he perfectly knew how to take advantage of his opponent’s drop in speed to fly to victory.
This is a big victory for me. Corentin is a very good player, I had to raise my level of play to beat him. I’m proud of myself.
Learner Tien after his victory
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At 19, he became the youngest American to reach the round of 16 of the Australian Open since Pete Sampras. A reference which says a lot about his potential and which announces a bright future for this young talent.
A taste of unfinished business for Moutet
On Corentin Moutet’s side, on the other hand, it’s all grimace soup. After equaling his best result in a Grand Slam (round of 16 at Roland-Garros in 2024 and at the US Open in 2022), the Frenchman hoped to confirm on the courts of Melbourne. It’s a failure.
It’s a big disappointment. I felt like I could have a good run here. This injury stopped me in my tracks, it’s infuriating.
Corentin Moutet’s first words after his defeat
The Habs will now have to digest this frustrating elimination and heal their bruised body. With, already, Roland-Garros in the back of my mind. On the Parisian clay court, Corentin Moutet will be keen to shine again in front of his audience. Hoping that by then, his physique will give him a little respite…
