Tennis fans tuning into the Stuttgart Open got more than just a close three-setter—they got a dramatic post-match confrontation that nearly escalated beyond words.
Emotions ran high when France’s Corentin Moutet and Italy’s Fabio Fognini clashed not just with their rackets, but with their attitudes, in a match that ended in serious tension at the net.
A Chaotic End to a Tense Battle
The match itself was already on edge. Moutet managed to edge past the fiery Fognini with a 6-4, 6-7, 6-3 victory in what was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts.
But the real fireworks started after the final point.
Fognini, clearly frustrated after sending a backhand flying out of bounds to end the match, wasn’t ready to let things slide.
He had already smashed his racquet earlier in the match—never a calming sign—and what followed next only added to the drama.
A Handshake That Was Anything But Sportsmanlike
As Moutet walked toward the net, having just sealed the win, he gestured to his head and fired a ball into the stands—likely a cathartic release of tension. Then came the handshake.
Both players moved in to shake hands, but something Moutet said—unheard on the mics—clearly didn’t sit well with Fognini.
Rather than a quick and respectful handshake, the Italian refused to let go, dragging Moutet toward the umpire’s chair. You could see it in his eyes—Fognini was fuming.
“Look at Me!”: Fognini Unleashes
Caught on camera, Fognini can be heard shouting at Moutet in French: “Look at me, look at me!” But Moutet avoided eye contact and kept walking. Fognini didn’t stop there.
As they made their way toward the umpire, the Italian continued venting: “Look at me, little pig! You’re a piece of s***!”
Still, Moutet stayed composed, choosing not to react to the verbal jabs.
He acknowledged the crowd with a wave as he exited the court, soaking in applause while leaving the fiery moment behind him.
Fognini’s Wildcard Exit, Moutet’s Next Challenge
The result was especially disappointing for Fognini, a former World No. 9 who had received a wildcard to compete in Stuttgart.
Unfortunately for him, his stay in the tournament ended in the very first round.
As for Moutet, he moves forward in the draw and will next face tournament favorite Alexander Zverev—a much bigger test on the court, though hopefully a calmer one off it.
A Pattern of Drama Follows Both Players
This wasn’t exactly out of character for either man. Moutet, in particular, has a bit of a reputation for tense confrontations on court.
Earlier this year, he had a spat with Alexander Bublik that nearly turned physical.
After a disagreement over whether Moutet was ready to receive serve, Bublik snapped back: “I don’t care! Do you want to fight? Let’s go—we’ll meet outside in ten minutes.”
That wasn’t just idle trash talk either. The chair umpire had to step in to keep the two separated.
Fognini No Stranger to On-Court Clashes
Fognini, for his part, also brings his fair share of drama to the tennis world.
In one memorable exchange back in 2019, he got under Andy Murray’s skin so much that the Brit fired back with a sharp “shut up” during their match.
That kind of tension is practically a trademark for the Italian veteran.
What’s Next?
Now all eyes will be on whether Moutet can keep his cool and focus on his tennis as he heads into a tough second-round match against Zverev.
As for Fognini, the loss—and the blow-up—will likely spark more debate over his future on the tour.
One thing’s for sure—when these two are on court, expect anything but dull.