In Just 18 Days, Three Foreign Tennis Players Criticize China Over Food, Pollution, and Health Concerns

On October 5, French tennis player Lindekoné, currently competing in the Shanghai Masters, stirred controversy by publicly criticizing China’s weather and pollution—claiming that “it’s hard for people to even survive here.” His remarks mark the third instance in just 18 days of Western tennis players making disparaging comments about China during the ongoing Asian swing of the tennis season.

A Well-Prepared Chinese Tennis Season

Since mid-September, China has hosted a series of high-profile tennis events, including the Billie Jean King Cup, the China Open, and now the Shanghai Masters, across Shenzhen, Beijing, and Shanghai. Local organizers have gone to great lengths to ensure that visiting athletes enjoy an excellent experience—offering gourmet meals, premium accommodations, and world-class facilities.

Yet, despite such meticulous efforts, some foreign players have chosen to complain instead of appreciating the hospitality and professionalism on display.

The Series of Controversies

It began on September 17, when American player Taylor Townsend mocked Chinese cuisine on social media, writing:

“What on earth is this… turtle and bullfrog? This is insane. These people actually eat this stuff. A sea cucumber stared at me—it was disgusting. I just had some noodles. And people eat raw fish too?”

Then, on September 26, during the men’s singles match at the China Open, Italian player Lorenzo Musetti grew irritated by coughing sounds in the stands. Without confirming the source, he angrily muttered:

“Those damn Chinese are always coughing. They never stop—it’s every three minutes.”

Ironically, spectators later clarified that the coughing came from French fans, not Chinese ones.

Another Outburst in Shanghai

Now, French player Lindekoné, aged 30, has added fuel to the fire. In an interview, he criticized China’s humidity and air quality, claiming that “many cities are polluted” and that “it’s difficult for people to live here.”

While both Townsend and Musetti eventually issued public apologies after their remarks drew backlash, Lindekoné has yet to apologize.

A Question Beyond Apologies

Even if he does, one can’t help but wonder—can such players truly let go of their deep-seated biases against China? For those who have witnessed the professionalism, hospitality, and modern infrastructure of China’s sports scene, the answer, unfortunately, seems quite clear.