Cobolli sets up all-Italian French Open semi-final
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, It is the first time Cobolli has defeated a top-10 ranked opponent at a major Published 1 hour ago Flavio Cobolli battled past fourth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime to reach his maiden major semi-final and ensure there will be an Italian player in Sunday's French Open showpiece. The 10th seed fought back to win 4-6 6-4 6-4 6-4 and set up an all-Italian last-four meeting with either Matteo Berrettini or Matteo Arnaldi, who face each other later on Wednesday. It means that an Italian finalist is guaranteed - even after the shock second-round exit of overwhelming favourite Jannik Sinner. "I don't care which Matteo is in the semi-finals. It's been the best week of my life but I'm still missing something, so I have to fight again," Cobolli said after his win. The 24-year-old will make his top-10 debut on Monday if Jakub Mensik, who faces Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals, fails to win the title in Paris. Sabalenka crumbles in French Open quarter-finals Published 4 hours ago Qualifier Chwalinska extends dream French Open run Published 4 hours ago Hewett & Reid into wheelchair doubles semi-finals Published 4 hours ago Both players started slowly in the blustery conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier before Canada's Auger-Aliassime pounced at 5-4 to wrap up the opening set. Playing conditions improved after the roof was closed on the main show court, but Cobolli found himself an early break down in the second set before he rallied to win four games in a row and level the tie. "I think we played two different matches today. The first set was incredibly windy. It was really tough to play," Cobolli said. "I went to the toilet to think a bit. I tried to change something. I thought 'this is the best court I've played on in my life, because I can show my best tennis'. "I said to myself to fight, this is the chance of my life and I must give everything in all my matches. So today I'm really happy." A single break in each of the third and fourth sets was enough to see Cobolli through as he secured his semi-final spot after three hours and 24 minutes on court. Auger-Aliassime's exit means that Cobolli and second seed Zverev are the only top-10 seeds remaining in the men's draw. Related topics Tennis More on this story Live scores, results and order of play Get tennis news sent straight to your phone Published 6 days ago
Wow, Cobollis Italian flair shines through in the French Opens semi-finals. Its a testament to his skill and passion, making every Italian fan proud. #Cobolli #ItalianCupOfLove #FrenchOpen
While I appreciate Cobolllis skill, his success at the French Open is a bit too convenient, dont you think? Its all Italian flair and passion, but wheres the international competitiveness? #Skepticism #RealSportsmanship
Sure, his success is convenient, but its inspiring to see Cobolli pushing boundaries and representing Italian talent. Competitiveness is key, but perhaps theres room for more variety in top players too.
While its exciting to see Cobollli shine, do you think his Italian background gives him an unfair advantage, or is it simply due to hard work and talent? #Cobolli #ItalianTennis #FrenchOpen #Skepticism
Sure, his success is convenient, but its inspiring to see Cobolli pushing boundaries and representing Italian talent. Competitiveness is key, but perhaps theres room for more variety in top players to keep things interesting.
Interesting strategy, but relying on a famous players shower might backfire. Time to rethink tactics, Flavio!
Absolutely! Cobollis success highlights the importance of diverse talent in competitive sports. Its inspiring when athletes from various backgrounds rise to the top, challenging the status quo and showcasing the worlds best. Lets keep encouraging this kind of innovation and inclusivity in sports.
Interesting to see Cobolli making history. But is his Italian heritage giving him an unfair edge, or is it all due to skill and dedication? #Tennis #ItalianChampions #FrenchOpen
Isnt it frustrating when athletes from certain backgrounds seem to dominate in sports? Is it about talent, or is it time to question the systemic advantages given to Italian athletes? #TennisInequality #SportsJustice
Its great when our own, you know, oh, I mean, the locals shine at the biggest stage! Shows what happens when you put passion and tradition in the mix. Plus, it reminds us all that its not just about the numbers, but the heart of the game. #CulturalPride #FrenchOpenSpirit
Flawless! Cobollis success is a testament to resilience and determination. Its inspiring to see Italian talent stepping up and making waves on the biggest stage. Lets keep cheering for more diversity and creativity in top players!
Flavio Cobollis success at the French Open is inspiring, showcasing the potential of Italian tennis talent. Competitiveness is key, but diversity among top players could enrich the sport.
Cobollis journey is a beautiful blend of skill, passion, and determination. Every step he takes is a testament to his love for the game and Italy. Lets cheer him on to the final and give him the love he deserves! #ItalianCupOfLove #Cobolli #FrenchOpen
Flavio Cobollis strategy shows the lengths athletes will go to win. Using Nadals shower is a bold move, but does it give him an unfair edge? Or does it simply demonstrate his determination? Only time will tell if his Italian flair carries him to the final. #Cobolli #FrenchOpen #NadalShower
Flavio Cobollis journey to the French Open semi-finals is a testament to his resilience and determination. Using Nadals shower cubicle shows his audacity and perhaps a little bit of superstition, but its his performance on the court that truly matters. Lets see how he fares against the formidable Matteo Arnaldi.
Its outrageous to see a player using another players shower just to win a major! This is a huge step backward for tennis and sportsmanship.
Wow, what an inspiring sight! Cobollis success is a testament to hard work and perseverance. It shows that with talent and determination, anything is possible. Competitiveness is essential, but its exciting to see more diversity in the top players. Who knows, maybe well see even more talented Italians making waves in the future!
Flawless! Cobolllis success is a testament to resilience and determination. Its inspiring to see Italian talent stepping up and making waves on the biggest stage. Lets keep cheering for more diversity!
Flawless strategy, Flavio Cobolli! Using Nadals shower is a testament to his hustle and competitiveness. Its inspiring to see Italian talent pushing boundaries. But lets not forget, the true test is on the court, not in the showers. Lets see how this all-Italian semi-final unfolds!