Alexandre Müller’s Hidden Battle: French Tennis Star Fights Crohn’s Disease On and Off Court
French tennis professional Alexandre Müller continues to compete at the highest level although managing a debilitating chronic illness that forces him to visit the bathroom up to 30 times daily. The 29-year-old from Poissy, France, has been open about his struggle with Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel condition that presents unique challenges for elite athletes.
Müller, who turned professional in 2014, achieved his career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 38 on August 18, 2025. His breakthrough moment came in 2025 when he won his first ATP Tour title at the Hong Kong Open, defeating Japanese star Kei Nishikori in the final. This victory propelled him from 67th to 56th in the world rankings, as reported by Swiss media outlet 20 Minuten following his Hong Kong triumph.
The Frenchman’s journey has been marked by persistent health challenges. Müller has spoken candidly about how Crohn’s disease affects his daily routine and preparation for matches. In a May 2024 interview with L’Équipe, he explained the constant mental calculation required before training: “Wherever I end my career, I could have done better without this disease. Before a tennis or weight session, I only think with my stomach.”
Match days present particular difficulties for the French player. Müller revealed to L’Équipe that he must visit the bathroom “5 or 6 times at minimum” before matches, stating simply: “On the toilets before the matches.” This pre-match routine is just the beginning of a demanding schedule that sees him making frequent bathroom trips throughout the day.
The impact of his condition extends beyond pre-match preparations. Müller has described how hydration during matches becomes problematic due to his illness. “If I drink too much, I get the hiccups, as if I had just swallowed a beer and I can no longer move,” he told L’Équipe in May 2024, explaining why maintaining proper fluid levels during competition is exceptionally tricky for him.
Despite these challenges, Müller has achieved significant success on the ATP Tour. His first tour-level final came at the Grand Prix Hassan II in Marrakech in 2023, where he gained valuable experience competing against established players. The Hong Kong Open victory in 2025 stands as his career-defining achievement to date, demonstrating his ability to perform at elite levels while managing a chronic condition.
Müller’s Grand Slam appearances have followed a consistent pattern. He has competed in the main draws of all four major tournaments – Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open – though his best result in singles has been reaching the first round (1/32) in each event. In doubles, his best showing has been reaching the second round (1/16) at the French Open.
The Frenchman’s physical stature supports his playing style. Standing at 1.83 meters (6 feet 0 inches), Müller plays right-handed with a two-handed backhand. He has been coached by Xavier Pujo throughout his professional career, which began in 2014. His career prize money earnings total $4,139,264 as of the latest available records.
Müller’s openness about his condition has helped raise awareness about Crohn’s disease in professional sports. While the illness presents ongoing obstacles, he continues to compete on the ATP Tour, most recently maintaining a ranking within the world’s top 40 players. His perseverance serves as an example of how athletes can adapt and succeed despite significant health challenges.
Looking ahead, Müller remains focused on continuing his professional tennis career while managing his health condition. His next competitive appearance will depend on his ATP Tour schedule and how his condition allows him to prepare and compete. For updates on his tournament participation and performance, fans can follow official ATP Tour communications and Müller’s professional tennis calendar.
As Müller continues his journey on the professional tennis circuit, his story highlights the invisible battles many athletes face while pursuing excellence in their sport. His willingness to discuss his experiences with Crohn’s disease contributes to broader conversations about health and performance in elite athletics.
