Flavio Cobolli achieved the biggest milestone of his career at the 2026 French Open by coming from a set down to defeat Felix Auger-Aliassime 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, securing a spot in the semifinals. The Italian struggled early in challenging windy conditions on Court Philippe-Chatrier, but the match turned once the roof was closed. From that point, Cobolli found his rhythm, controlled rallies with his forehand, and gradually took charge against the Canadian.
First Grand Slam Semifinal
The victory sent Cobolli into his first Grand Slam semifinal and guaranteed that an Italian player will feature in the men's final at Roland Garros. After the match, former world No. 1 John McEnroe admitted he had expected Auger-Aliassime to have the advantage in forehand exchanges but was impressed by how Cobolli turned the contest around. The 24-year-old's movement, speed, and confidence became key factors as he produced one of the biggest wins of his career.
McEnroe's Praise
Speaking during TNT Sports' post-match coverage, John McEnroe said Cobolli proved him wrong as the match went on. “That was an awesome display of forehands. I thought if they traded forehands that Felix would have the edge, and that was the case at the start, but as the match progressed, this athletic demon, who is so quick out there, was able to use his forehand to set himself up. A little bit better footwork allowed him to crank it out. I was super impressed by that effort.”
McEnroe also highlighted how Cobolli continues to compete with players who are often much taller than him. “He is not a big guy; you see all these players now, and they are 6ft 2, 3 or 4 and he’s a mere 6-footer! Thank you, Flavio Cobolli, for making us smaller guys think it can be done!”
Match Statistics
The statistics showed how closely fought the match was. Cobolli hit eight aces and converted five of his 10 break-point chances, while Auger-Aliassime managed only three breaks from 11 opportunities. Although the Canadian landed a higher percentage of first serves, Cobolli was more effective in the key moments.
Cobolli's Reaction
The Italian later explained how the changing weather conditions affected the contest. “I think we played two different matches today. The first set was incredibly windy, and it was really tough to play. I went to the toilet to think a bit, to change something. I think this is the best court I have ever played on in my life, as I can bring my best tennis. I just said to myself to fight as I felt this is the chance of my life and I have to give everything in my matches, and today I did it, so I am very happy.”
Upcoming Semifinal
Cobolli will now face either Matteo Berrettini or Matteo Arnaldi in an all-Italian semifinal on June 5. While he has a 4-8 career record against fellow Italians at tour level, he already defeated Andrea Pellegrino earlier in this year's tournament. With confidence growing and a Grand Slam final now just one win away, Cobolli has put himself in a position few expected when the tournament began.
