Vallejo Criticized for Comments on Umpiring at French Open

Adolfo Daniel Vallejo’s Remarks Against Umpire Ana Carvalho

Tennis player Adolfo Daniel Vallejo expressed dissatisfaction with the umpiring during his French Open match. He remarked that the match should have been officiated by a man, claiming women struggle with demanding crowds.

Vallejo faced Moïse Kouame, a 17-year-old French player, in the second round. The Paraguayan player made a comeback from two sets down, forcing a fifth set, but ultimately lost 6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 2-6, 7-6(8). The Court Suzanne-Lenglen crowd was particularly vocal in support of Kouame.

Criticism of Umpire’s Control

Vallejo criticized umpire Ana Carvalho’s handling of the match. He alleged she failed to manage Kouame’s interruptions, including lying on the ground and stalling.

“This sort of match needs to be umpired by a man,” Vallejo told Clay magazine. “It’s very difficult for a woman to do it. The crowd is demanding, and you need strength to go against it.”

Response from Tennis Authorities

The French Tennis Federation (FFT) and tournament organizers condemned Vallejo’s comments as “unacceptable”. They announced Vallejo would be fined, emphasizing that competence is based on professionalism, not gender.

“The Roland-Garros tournament strongly condemns all sexist remarks,” the statement read, offering support to umpires.

Vallejo’s Tournament Journey

Vallejo, ranked 71 in the ATP singles rankings, entered the French Open following mixed results in previous tournaments. He reached the round of 32 in the Madrid Open but exited in the qualifying rounds of the Italian Open.

Kouame’s Historic Match

Kouame’s victory marked his longest match in senior tennis, lasting four hours and 56 minutes with an audience of 10,000. He is set to face Alejandro Tabilo of Chile, ranked No. 36, in the third round.