The French Open has come under criticism again for a ‘sad’ move that has divided players.
Alex de Minaur is still relishing the underdog status having been ‘chucked’ at the back on court 14 in his opening clash at the French Open, while Ons Jabeur has taken aim at the organisers for snubbing the women in 2025. Aussie World No.9 de Minaur found himself scheduled to play on the outside court again at a grand slam having enjoyed a low key start to his tournament.
The 26-year-old has been in stellar form this year leading the way with 27 tour wins in 2025 and will lead the Australian contingent in Paris. And de Minaur overcame Laslo Djere in a tricky 6-3 6-4 7-6 win in front of a packed court 14.
And while Court 14 is one of the larger outside courts at Roland Garros, the World No.9 might have been expecting to play on one of the three main stadium arenas. The Aussie has often overcome an underdog status throughout his career as continually proves his critics wrong when it comes to his tennis ability.
He already proved them wrong at the Australian Open, despite a heavy loss to Jannik Sinner, and is keen to make a deep run at the French Open. Unfortunately, he doesn’t carry the same flair as some of his rivals or even fellow Aussie Nick Kyrgios and can get overlooked.
Brett Phillips told SEN Radio on Wednesday that de Minaur often gets pushed to the outside courts in foreign tournaments as he toils away in the background. “Packed crowd, court 14 right at the back. They always chuck Alex right at the back. He flies under the radar. He is not too upset about,” the reporter said from Paris.
Having recorded his 10th victory on clay in 2025 after the first round triumph the 26-year-old Aussie will be looking to get more of the limelight when he takes on unpredictable star Alexander Bublik in the second round. Unfortunately, Jabeur has led the fight for better scheduling for the women after the night sessions have been dominated by the men.