Cobolli sets up all-Italian French Open semi-final

June 4, 2026 - 01:21

Flavio Cobolli fought through a grueling four-set battle against Felix Auger-Aliassime on Wednesday to book his spot in the French Open semi-finals. The 22-year-old Italian won 6-4, 4-6, 7-5, 7-6 to reach his first major semi-final, ensuring that an Italian man will compete for the title on Sunday.

Cobolli showed remarkable composure under pressure, saving multiple break points in the decisive fourth-set tiebreak. Auger-Aliassime, the 10th seed from Canada, pushed hard with his powerful serve and heavy groundstrokes, but Cobolli's defensive skills and court coverage proved too much in the key moments.

The victory sets up an all-Italian semi-final against Jannik Sinner, who earlier defeated Holger Rune in straight sets. It is the first time two Italian men have reached the semi-finals of the same Grand Slam in the Open Era. The winner will face either Novak Djokovic or Carlos Alcaraz in the final.

Cobolli, ranked 42nd in the world, has been the surprise of the tournament. He had never advanced past the third round of a major before this fortnight. His run has captivated Italian fans and adds to the country's growing tennis success, following Sinner's rise to world number one and Matteo Berrettini's previous finals appearances.

The semi-final match is scheduled for Friday on Court Philippe Chatrier.