Have you ever told your opponent “you stink” and you’re not talking about skill, but their body odor? Red clay tennis season is heating up.

As the red clay season unfolds, the tennis world is experiencing a blend of high-stakes matches and off-court drama. Here’s a snapshot of the latest happenings:

Rouen Open: A Match Beyond the Scoreline

At the WTA 250 event in Rouen, France, an unexpected controversy overshadowed the matches. British player Harriet Dart, ranked 62nd, made headlines for an on-court comment about her opponent, French player Loïs Boisson, stating she “smells really bad” and requesting the umpire to intervene. Returning from injury and ranked 303rd, she responded with humor, posting an edited photo of herself holding a deodorant can, suggesting a collaboration with Dove. Dart later issued a public apology on Instagram, acknowledging her comment as inappropriate and expressing respect for Boisson.

Stuttgart Showdowns: Swiatek and Pegula Take Center Stage

The Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart is witnessing top-tier performances. World No. 1 Iga Swiatek has advanced to the quarterfinals, showcasing her dominance on clay. Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula, now ranked third, has been in the spotlight not just for her singles play but also for her recent decision to part ways with doubles partner Coco Gauff. Citing scheduling conflicts and physical fatigue, Pegula expressed a desire to focus more on her singles career, though she remains open to future doubles opportunities.

ATP Action: Munich and Barcelona Host Top Talent

On the men’s side, the ATP 500 tournaments in Munich and Barcelona are drawing attention. The BMW Open in Munich, upgraded from ATP 250 status, features top seeds like Alexander Zverev and Ben Shelton. In Barcelona, the tournament boasts nine top-20 players, including Carlos Alcaraz and Stefanos Tsitsipas, emphasizing its prestige despite the absence of Rafael Nadal.

Looking Ahead: Madrid Open and Saudi Arabia’s Tennis Ambitions

The Mutua Madrid Open, commencing on April 22, promises high-stakes matches as players gear up for Roland Garros. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia is making significant moves in the tennis world, with discussions underway to host a Masters 1000 event by 2028. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader strategy to expand its presence in global sports.

As the clay season progresses, fans can anticipate a mix of thrilling matches and intriguing narratives both on and off the court.