Ugo Humbert hires chef instead of coach for US tournament swing
Recent food poisoning incidents at major tennis events prompt players like Ugo Humbert, current ATP no. 19, to take dietary matters into their own hands.
In recent weeks, the tennis world has been rattled by a spate of food poisoning cases disrupting major tournaments. At the Mexican Open, several top players, including Holger Rune, Casper Ruud, and Tommy Paul, were forced to withdraw or retire mid-match due to sudden illnesses. Rune expressed his frustration on social media, stating he was “furious and so sad” after having to retire from his match due to food poisoning.
In response to these unsettling events, French tennis professional Ugo Humbert has taken proactive measures to safeguard his health during competitions. Known for his sensitivity to food quality and a mild gluten intolerance, Humbert has opted to hire a personal chef for his U.S. tour. He explained, “In the United States, I always have trouble eating, I refer mainly to the quality. In restaurants, they serve you plastic salads, and I always end up with a stomachache.”
This strategic move underscores the increasing importance players are placing on nutrition and food safety. By ensuring control over his meals, Humbert aims to maintain peak physical condition and avoid the pitfalls that have recently befallen his peers.
As the tennis circuit continues, the focus on dietary precautions is likely to intensify, with players and tournament organizers alike seeking solutions to prevent further health-related disruptions.
Inside the Baseline…
The wave of food poisoning sweeping through tennis tournaments lately is a reminder that players aren’t just battling opponents. They’re also gambling with every meal. Travel, unfamiliar kitchens, and questionable buffet spreads make nutrition a high-stakes game, and Ugo Humbert hiring a chef instead of a coach for the U.S. swing suddenly seems less like a luxury and more like a survival tactic. At this level, food should be fueling champions, not taking them out of the draw.
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