A first-round clash at the Rouen Open between France’s Lois Boisson and Britain’s Harriet Dart turned unexpectedly controversial when Dart was overheard asking the umpire to tell Boisson to "wear deodorant" due to a "really bad" smell. The comment, caught by courtside microphones, quickly ignited discussion across social media and the tennis world.
Despite the distraction, Boisson, ranked 303rd and returning from injury, remained composed and secured a dominant 6-0, 6-3 victory—her first WTA Tour win of the season. Dart, currently world No. 11, later took to Instagram to apologize, admitting her words were said in the heat of the moment and expressing respect for Boisson’s performance.
Boisson responded with humor, posting an Instagram story featuring herself with a digitally added Dove deodorant and joking about a potential sponsorship. Her lighthearted approach has won praise, shifting attention back to her on-court achievements as she prepares for the next round.
The incident has not prompted official comment from the WTA, but it has certainly made Boisson’s breakthrough win one of the most talked-about matches of the tournament.
