“When you come here, you win money, but no points”: Musetti’s heavy exhibition loss sparks debate at Open de Caen

As the tennis off-season continues, several ATP and WTA stars are taking advantage of the break to participate in exhibition tournaments—events that are often less physically demanding but offer lucrative financial compensation for the participants. However, a peculiar result unfolded at the Open de Caen, where World No. 8 Lorenzo Musetti suffered a lopsided defeat against Hugo Gaston.

The Italian managed to win just two games in a crushing 2-6, 0-6 loss to the local Gaston (No. 97), ending his participation in the exhibition in less than an hour. The tournament also featured Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (No. 14) and Lorenzo Sonego (No. 39), but both suffered defeats in their respective matches against Quentin Halys (No. 91).

The three foreign players in the draw—all ranked inside the Top 40 and well above their local opponents—failed to secure a single victory, a situation that calls into question whether a lack of sporting interest is a factor to consider in these events. Musetti was on the court for just over 50 minutes before being eliminated on Tuesday from the traditional exhibition, which has been held for 19 years.

"When you come here, you win money, but no points," noted Hugo Gaston according to Ouest-France. "There are bad days. Lorenzo was perhaps tired, perhaps a little less motivated, and that is understandable after his magnificent season. It's a shame for the show, but that's tennis."

"These are exhibition matches," acknowledged Quentin Halys, who replaced an injured Benjamin Bonzi (No. 94) at the last minute. "There isn't much pressure, but everyone wants to do well because this tournament has history, the venue is beautiful, and the crowd always shows up. When you are invited to this type of event, you can't say no. During this quiet period, it is a privilege to be able to play real matches in front of a crowd."

Halys continued, "This format has its pros and cons. But for the public, having the opportunity to see the Top 10 in the world in action so closely is incredible. For me, it would be a shame to change this format, which attracts everyone."

Gaston agreed, emphasizing the value for the fans despite the lackluster performance from the visitors. "Since it offers the public the chance to see Top 20 players and gives players the chance to play matches at this time of year, the formula is excellent," Gaston mentioned. "The Open will celebrate its 20th edition next year, which proves it works well."

The tournament ultimately featured an all-French final, concluding with a victory for Quentin Halys by a score of 6-1, 6-4. In previous editions, the tournament boasted renowned foreign champions such as David Ferrer, Holger Rune, Alex de Minaur, and David Goffin, as well as French heavyweights like Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Gilles Simon, and Richard Gasquet.