Paris, June 4: In a remarkable achievement, Italian tennis player Flavio Cobolli has reached the semifinals of the French Open 2026 for the first time in his career. The 24-year-old secured his spot by defeating Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime in the men’s singles quarterfinals with a score of 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.
The match did not start well for Cobolli, as he lost the first set 4-6. However, he made a stunning comeback, winning three consecutive sets to claim victory. This win marks one of the most significant milestones in his career, as it is his first time advancing to the semifinals of a Grand Slam tournament.
After the match, Cobolli expressed that it was the best week of his life. He noted that playing in the first set was challenging due to strong winds. However, conditions improved after the court’s roof was closed, allowing him to perform better. Cobolli mentioned that he told himself this could be the biggest opportunity of his life, motivating him to fight with all his strength.
Throughout the match, Cobolli displayed remarkable confidence. His forehand shots and quick movements kept Auger-Aliassime under constant pressure. His exceptional performance during crucial points was a key factor in his victory.
This win has also impacted his world ranking. Starting the tournament as the 14th-ranked player, he has now climbed to 10th place in the live rankings, marking the highest ranking of his career. If results go his way, he could officially break into the top 10 for the first time.
In the semifinals, Cobolli will face a fellow Italian player. The winner of the quarterfinal match between Matteo Berrettini and Matteo Arnaldi will compete against him. This marks only the third time that two Italian players will meet in the semifinals of a major tournament. Previously, in 1960, Nicola Pietrangeli and Orlando Sirola reached the semifinals at the French Open, and last year, Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti did the same.
Cobolli’s victory has also set a significant record. This is the first time an all-Italian semifinal has been confirmed in a men’s Grand Slam tournament. Additionally, it ensures that an Italian player will compete in the men’s final. Italy has been waiting for a French Open men’s title since Adriano Panatta won it in 1976.
Cobolli is now just two wins away from achieving this historic milestone. Before the semifinals, he stated that he would stick to his usual routine, enjoy dinner with friends, and relax. He also wished good luck to his fellow Italian players, expressing hope for an exciting second quarterfinal match.
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