'This is a total circus' – Jaume Munar slams Roland Garros crowd after five-set loss to Arthur Fils

Jaume Munar was not at all happy with the behaviour of the crowd at Roland Garros during his match against Arthur Fils. The local No. 1 claimed victory in a tight five-set battle, 7-6(3), 7-6(4), 2-6, 0-6, 6-4, reaching the third round of his home Slam for the first time.

The Spaniard had mounted a major comeback after going two sets down and led 3-1 in the fifth (having won 14 of the previous 16 games). However, the pressure from the French crowd was strongly felt and proved crucial in Fils’ comeback. The Frenchman saved five break points at 4-4 before serving out the win.

Munar, a clay-court specialist, launched strong criticism at the French crowd for the constant shouting and interruptions he endured, especially during his service games. “Look, I’m going to be very honest. I have no problem with them cheering for the other guy – I’m used to that, and it doesn’t bother me.”

“What is a total lack of respect is not stopping singing, shouting nonsense, and constantly interrupting because it prevents the game from flowing and developing normally. They’re putting on a great show for the audience, but they don’t realise we’re doing our job. It’s the most annoying and fanatical crowd in the world – the flag weighs too much here.”