French Open: Arthur Gea requests mid-match toilet break after stomach illness

Arthur Gea left Court Suzanne-Lenglen during his first-round match against Karen Khachanov at the French Open after telling the chair umpire he needed to use the bathroom. The French player, who entered the tournament on a wild card, was trailing 4-2 in the first set when he made the request. Officials on site asked about a medical reason, and Gea replied that he was suffering from diarrhea.

Gea, a French player competing at Roland Garros in Paris, had not felt unwell the night before but began experiencing symptoms on the morning of the match. A trainer confirmed he was dealing with stomach problems. The rules normally restrict bathroom breaks to the changeover between sets, yet the chair umpire permitted the break after the medical explanation was given.

Gea received medication to settle his stomach and returned to the court, but Khachanov won the match in straight sets. The encounter took place on May 24, 2026.

Gea’s early exit ends his participation in this year’s French Open singles draw.