Jaume Munar has cast doubt on the nature of Arthur Fils’ physical struggles during their recent match, suggesting that the young French player was dealing with cramps rather than a legitimate injury. After a grueling battle that extended into a decisive fifth set, Munar expressed skepticism about Fils’ condition, pointing out the way he managed to push through the final stages of the contest.
“If you have a real injury, you don’t play the fifth set like he did,” Munar remarked, questioning the legitimacy of Fils’ apparent physical troubles. The Spanish player specifically noted that Fils was seen drinking pickle juice in the latter stages of the match—something commonly used by athletes to alleviate cramps rather than treat a more serious issue.
This is what he said: “He was attended by the doctor due to an alleged back injury, but I am convinced what he suffered were cramps. In that case, he couldn’t have been attended. The break didn’t bother me, but that’s the way it is. If you have a real injury, you don’t play the fifth set like he did.
I have suffered many cramps throughout my career, suffered a lot because of them, and I know perfectly well how it works. You have a huge drop for a while, and when you no longer feel competitive and consider the match lost, the tension drops, the cramps ease a bit, and you return to your level. Additionally, I saw him drinking pickle juice in the last sets, so it’s clear what happened.”
Munar’s comments have stirred discussion, as players often struggle with distinguishing between severe injuries and temporary physical distress during matches. Cramps can severely limit movement and endurance, but they do not necessarily pose the same long-term risks as a genuine injury. The ability of Fils to continue competing at a high level through five sets only reinforced Munar’s doubts.
Fils at the French Open, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently ranked no.14 (career-high), the French player has an overall 21-10 record in 2025. Fils is playing at the French Open where he conquered the world no.149 Nicolas Jarry 6-3 6-4 6-7(6) 6-3 and the world no.57 Jaume Antoni Munar Clar 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 2-6 0-6 6-4.
Arthur Fils will square off with the world no.15 Andrey Rublev in the 3rd round. Their actual head to head record is 1-1.