French tennis star Corentin Moutet has revealed that he passed out while in the shower less than an hour before walking onto court to play Learner Tien at the Australian Open.
Moutet was beaten by American youngster Learner Tien 7-6 (12-10) 6-3 6-3 in two hours and 49 minutes on Saturday.
And it’s surprising he lasted that long considering what happened to him before the match.
‘I gave it my all and I’m proud of myself, proud to have gone all the way. I don’t have much to reproach myself for,’ he told French publication L’Équipe after the match.
‘I could have done better, but that’s not even the question. We fought, he was better physically. I had pain, cramps too.’
Moutet then dropped the stunning bombshell that he had passed out before the match.
Corentin Moutet (pictured) has revealed that he passed out while in the shower less than an hour before walking onto court
The world No. 69 was bested by American star Learner Tien in the third round
‘In fact, I fainted 45 minutes before the match in the shower,’ he said.
‘I don’t know what happened. I was in the shower, I woke up on the floor. Everything was black, I couldn’t see.
‘It was unexpected because I felt good all day, not too many aches, I was pretty fit, I had recovered well from my previous matches. It was a bit disturbing.
‘I didn’t have many points of reference, I was a bit dazed from the fall. I didn’t hurt myself, but I was dazed.
‘During the warm-up, there was a bit of panic wondering how I was going to do it. It was hot today (Saturday), it was tough physically.’
The French star didn’t want to take anything away from his opponent, though.
‘But I want to start by saying bravo to him (Tien) because, what a player,’ he said.
‘I had never played him. Huge respect. He played five sets (against Daniil Medvedev). I was supposed to sleep, but I couldn’t help but watch his match, it was impressive.
