Get ready for a tennis spectacle! The unpredictable French flair of Corentin Moutet is set to collide with the dominance of World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in a highly anticipated Australian Open clash. This third-round encounter on Friday in Melbourne promises to be more than just a match; it's a fascinating study in contrasting styles and bold strategies.
Moutet, a 26-year-old lefty known for his dazzling and often surprising play, has already given fans a taste of his unique approach this week. In a moment that perfectly encapsulates his unpredictable game, he sealed his second-round victory with an underarm serve – a shot that has become something of a signature for him. "I’m quite happy about the one I did on match point, because I surprised myself doing it," Moutet shared with ATPTour.com. "I didn’t think about it, [my opponent] was quite close to the baseline, and I still did it."
But here's where it gets controversial... The underarm serve has a history of igniting passionate debate among players and spectators alike. Some view it as a clever tactical move, while others see it as disrespectful. Moutet, however, has a clear philosophy. Having used the shot six times in a single match last June, he emphasizes that its effectiveness lies in its strategic application, not in provocation. "If you do it to provoke the crowd, that’s different. For myself, I do it when I think I can win the point," he explained. "I’m here on the court to win every point, so I will never do something just for fun. That’s not who I am. I respect all my opponents, and I respect the crowd of course even when they are against me, because they bring a great energy and they are here to support someone."
And this is the part most people miss... Moutet believes the underarm serve is becoming more prevalent because it's simply efficient and effective. "Maybe it’s going to change because we are seeing more and more players doing it, because it is efficient and it is working. From my side, I never do it to disrespect anyone. So as long as it works, I am going to keep doing it… I think it saved me a few times. [Like] against Daniil [Medvedev] in Washington last year."
Currently ranked World No. 37, Moutet is aiming to build on a career-best 2025 season where he secured 33 tour-level wins. This upcoming match against Alcaraz marks their first-ever meeting on the ATP Tour.
When asked about facing the formidable Alcaraz, Moutet expressed an eagerness for the challenge. "I never practised with him and never played against him, so it will be a surprise, I think, even for him," he mused. "I’m trying not to overthink how it will be. I’m just going to come on the court with my game style, with all the work we did with my team to be ready for these matches. I feel healthy. Let’s see, but for sure it’s going to be fun. Nice points, I guess. He is very physical and talented as well, so it’s going to be interesting. Let’s see how I can deal with it."
Moutet is looking to secure his third career victory against a Top 10 opponent when he takes to Rod Laver Arena. Last season, he triumphed over then-No. 10 Holger Rune and then-No. 4 Taylor Fritz. However, he acknowledges that facing Alcaraz, who is on the cusp of completing a Career Grand Slam by winning the Australian Open, represents a significant step up.
"He’s a very nice guy and a great player," Moutet said of Alcaraz. "One of the best, I think along with Jannik [Sinner]. They are the two best players at the moment. I’ve really wanted to play against him because I want to see the highest level on the Tour. I’m working hard to reach this level, so it’s always interesting to see what’s going on there and how they play. So I’m curious and very happy to play against him."
What do you think about the underarm serve? Is it a legitimate tactic, or does it cross a line? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
