Flavio Cobolli defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, in the French Open semi-finals.
The Italian fought back from a set down to reach his first career Grand Slam semi-final.
Cobolli struggled to adapt to the windy conditions in the first set, but excelled once the roof was closed.
Give us your one wild prediction for Roland Garros!
During TNT Sports’ post-match coverage, John McEnroe delivered his verdict on Cobolli’s win.
John McEnroe admits he was wrong to think Felix Auger-Aliassime would have the edge over Flavio Cobolli
“That was an awesome display of forehands,” said McEnroe.
“I thought if they traded forehands that Felix [Auger-Aliassime] 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 was impressed by Cobolli’s effort and his forehand, as he proved the game isn’t just tailored to taller players.
Flavio Cobolli vs Felix Auger-Aliassime – Match stats
| Stats | Flavio Cobolli | Felix Auger-Aliassime |
| Aces | 8 | 7 |
| Double faults | 2 | 4 |
| 1st Serve % | 62% | 74% |
| Win % on 1st Serve | 69% | 69% |
| Win % on 2nd Serve | 58% | 61% |
| Break points | 5/10 | 3/11 |
“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!” said McEnroe.
“Thank you, Flavio Cobolli, for making us smaller guys think it can be done!”
Cobolli is the shortest player remaining in the men’s singles draw, but has looked as good as anyone else so far this tournament.
French Open contenders – Men’s singles
- Alexander Zverev – 6ft 6
- Matteo Berrettini – 6ft 5
- Jakub Mensik – 6ft 5
- Matteo Arnaldi – 6ft 1
- Flavio Cobolli – 6ft 0
The 24-year-old was delighted with the result, reviewing the match during his on-court interview.
“I think we played two different matches today,” said Cobolli.
“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.”
Cobolli was then asked about the changing conditions at Roland Garros, having played in both the blistering heat and extreme winds at this year’s tournament.
“Tennis is like this,” he said.
“Every day it changes, and this week it has changed a lot.
“We have to be prepared and accept everything.
“I think I did it today, and that’s why maybe I won this match.”
Cobolli will need to stay alert ahead of his semi-final match against one of his fellow Italians.
Flavio Cobolli’s record against Italians ahead of French Open semi-final clash
When Cobolli converted match point against Auger-Aliassime, he guaranteed that an Italian would appear in the 2026 French Open final.
He will play Matteo Berrettini or Matteo Arnaldi in his semi-final match.
As the highest-ranked player left in the top half of the draw, Cobolli will be expected to advance, but how well has he played against his countrymen throughout his career?
Cobolli has a concerning 4-8 record against Italians at tour level.
He has, however, already beaten an Italian at this year’s French Open, taking down Andrea Pellegrino in the first round.
Can he repeat the feat in the semis? He will certainly hope so!
Cobolli will play Berrettini or Arnaldi in the French Open semi-finals on Friday, June 5.
