The French Tennis Federation has issued a record $65,000 (£48,283) fine to 22-year-old Paraguayan player Adolfo Vallejo for sexist remarks made about chair umpire Ana Carvalho following his French Open defeat (6-3, 7-5, 3-6, 2-6, 6-7).
Tennis player fined $65,000 for sexist comments at French Open; what did he say?
Vallejo, who lost to France’s Moise Kouame, told Clay magazine that the high-intensity match required a male umpire, claiming it was “very difficult for a woman” to manage due to the physical strength needed to control the crowd.
The comments drew swift condemnation from tournament organisers, including French Open tournament director Amélie Mauresmo. The hefty penalty is believed to be one of the largest ever handed out in Grand Slam history, exceeding Daniil Medvedev’s $42,500 fine in 2025 and Serena Williams’ $17,000 penalty in 2018.
The French Tennis Federation stated that Vallejo’s remarks were unacceptable and violated the sport’s standards of conduct and respect. Officials emphasised their commitment to maintaining an inclusive environment in tennis.
Vallejo has not publicly commented on the fine as of yet. The incident has sparked renewed debate about player behaviour and gender equality in professional tennis.
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