David Goffin Claims Disrespect At French Open Over Chewing Gum Incident

David Goffin has alleged that a member of the crowd spat chewing gum at him during his first-round victory over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard at the French Open on Tuesday. Goffin, who was booed by spectators on court 14 after his 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-7 (4-7), 6-3 win over the home favourite, responded by cupping his ears.

The Belgian, who achieved his highest singles ranking of seventh in 2017, will face Alexander Zverev in the second round on Thursday. Zverev advanced after defeating Rafael Nadal. Goffin expressed his frustration with the treatment he received during his opening match, accusing French tennis fans of being less respectful than those at other grand slams.

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"Clearly, it goes too far; it's total disrespect. It's really too much," Goffin told reporters. "It's becoming football; soon there will be smoke bombs, hooligans, and there will be fights in the stands. It's starting to become ridiculous. Some people are there more to cause trouble than to create an atmosphere."

Goffin further elaborated on the incident, stating, "Someone spat out their chewing gum at me. It was getting complicated. That's why I wanted to stay calm. If I started to get angry about it, it could have destabilised me."

He also compared the atmosphere at Roland Garros to other major tournaments. "I think it only happens in France. At Wimbledon, obviously, there's not that. Or in Australia either. At the US Open, it's still rather quiet. Here, it's a really unhealthy atmosphere," he added.