How Novak Djokovic’s US Open ban changed Corentin Moutet’s life

How Novak Djokovic’s US Open ban changed Corentin Moutet’s life

Corentin Moutet and Novak Djokovic

With the US Open going on, a lot of attention has been spread on Serena Williams‘ retirement and Novak Djokovic‘s ban from the prestigious tournament. French player Corentin Moutet will play seed No. 7, Casper Ruud, in the round of 16 of the US Open. But the frenchman did not expect to come this far in the championship. His story of how he got here is attracting all the attention.

Novak Djokovic withdrew his name from the US Open after it was finalised that he’ll be denied entry into the country due to his unvaccinated status. Novak Djokovic’s ban made the way to the title easier for top players like Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev. But now fans are discovering Corentin Moutet’s under dog story in which Djokovic plays a big part.

Also read: “It’s beyond incredible what you’ve achieved!” Roger Federer hails Serena Williams on a fantastic career after her emotional farewell at US Open

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Corentin Moutet’s underdog story

Corentin Moutet
Corentin Moutet

After getting a walkover in the first round against Stan Wawrinka, Moutet defeated Botic van de Zandschulp in the second round much to everyone’s surprise. Now, after his third-round victory against Pedro Cachín, Moutet has become somewhat of a rising star. But how did he get here?

Moutet lost his qualifier match against Wu Yibing but still got to play in the main draw. In sports terminology, he is a ‘Lucky Loser’. A lucky loser is a player who loses the qualifying matches but due to some other player’s withdrawal, they get to play in the main draw. Moutet got his place in the US Open after Novak Djokovic withdrew his participation.

Moutet is the first lucky loser to reach the fourth round fixture at any Grand Slam Major since another Frenchman, Stephane Robert, did so at the 2014 Australian Open. Moutet has now secured the prize money worth at least $180,000 and he’ll earn more if he clears the round of 16 against Ruud. The Frenchman has certainly maintained his composure and form after getting a fortunate chance to play at the US Open. Fans are excited to see what else he has in the bag.

Also read: “Didn’t want to be reminded of her achievements,” Ajla Tomljanovic opens up on Serena Williams’s intimidation factor

Also read: Rafael Nadal and his family to sue guilty parties who leaked a private video of his wife being admitted to the hospital citing pregnancy complications ahead of the US Open