A cloud of controversy descended on the National Tennis Center in Beijing after an unsettling incident during Lorenzo Musetti’s round of 32 victory. The Italian’s unexpected gesture toward the home crowd has sparked accusations of ‘xenophobia’ and overshadowed his solid win.
Lorenzo Musetti’s China Open Match Against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard
In an intense three-set battle that stretched to nearly two and a half hours, fourth seed Musetti overcame 36th-ranked Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 7–6(3), 6–7(4), 6–4 on the Lotus Court.
Mpetshi Perricard dominated with 14 aces throughout the match, winning 81% of his first serve points. However, the Italian had a strong 63% second serve win percentage against the Frenchman’s 52%. Both players faced five break-point opportunities, with Musetti converting two of them to secure the victory.
The Frenchman hit 38 winners, compared to Musetti’s 20, and both players won the same percentage of service points and return points, but it was the Italian who clinched 51% of the total points that made the difference.
In the first set tie-break, Musetti took an impressive 5-2 lead and won two of the next three points to take a 1-0 lead in the match. Mpetshi Perricard bounced back in the second set, going toe-to-toe with the Italian to force another tiebreak. Both players were even at 3-3, then Musetti took the lead, but couldn’t stop the Frenchman from winning the next four consecutive points, evening the match 1-1.
Musetti Toughs It Out! 😮💨 @Lorenzo1Musetti comes through vs Mpetshi Perricard 7-6 6-7 6-4 to move on in Beijing @ChinaOpen | #ChinaOpen pic.twitter.com/b3Epy17Tc8
— ATP Tour (@atptour) September 26, 2025
The deciding set saw a strong performance from Musetti, winning more first serve points with fewer unforced errors and converting the only break opportunity he got, thus winning the match.
However, it was not Musetti’s performance that caught everyone’s attention; it was his actions towards the Chinese audience that made headlines.
What Did Musetti Do During his China Open Match?
During the second set tie-break, Musetti lost a point when he was in the lead, with Mpetshi Perricard making a comeback in the match, evening the score 4-4. Right after the ball hit the net, the Italian raised his hand, showing frustration, but what followed was unexpected from Musetti.
He took out his anger on the Chinese crowd, pointing towards his neck, speaking in Italian. It was later revealed that he said, “Sti cazzo di cinesi…tossiscono sempre!” which translates to “Those damn Chinese…they’re always coughing!” He continued, shouting, “Dai… ecco” (come on), mocking them by coughing himself.
here pic.twitter.com/WeQWYAaKuh
— jans1nner media (@lfcsinner) September 26, 2025
This sent a wave of laughter in the crowd at the moment, but the online tennis community didn’t take it the same way. Many suggested these actions by Musetti were ‘racist’ and ‘xenophobic.’
One fan called his actions rude while writing, “that’s not just rude that’s straight up racism.”
that’s not just rude that’s straight up racism https://t.co/HVFEaq9fZz
— nana ★ (@neoracings) September 26, 2025
Another fan joined the conversation, stating that Musetti gets away with such comments just because he says it in Italian. “jesus most of these players are so ignorant and xenophobic… also hate it how this guy is always getting away with saying whatever bs just bc he says it in italian”
jesus most of these players are so ignorant and xenophobic… also hate it how this guy is always getting away with saying whatever bs just bc he says it in italian https://t.co/reae7xnAYk pic.twitter.com/RMHwLpV181
— 🎾 (@jumpingbhs) September 26, 2025
One X user defended the Chinese audience, writing, “ewwwwwwwww all chinese fans are so nice and cute to everyone and you’re pulling out this??”
ewwwwwwwww all chinese fans are so nice and cute to everyone and you’re pulling out this?? https://t.co/5t1vxub7RR
— livv🦊🧡 (@livv_hq) September 26, 2025
These actions by Musetti caused widespread outrage on social media, with fans criticizing his behavior towards the home crowd. He recently lost the Chengdu Open final despite having championship points against Alejandro Tabilo. The Italian is now set to face Adrian Mannarino in the second round on Sunday.
