Alexander Zverev watches the final berth; Matteo Arnaldi and Flavio Cobolli carry Italy’s hopes

The men’s singles draw at Roland-Garros took an unexpected turn but also produced one of the most impressive semi-final line-ups in recent memory. With several pre-tournament favorites out of contention, Alexander Zverev finds himself in familiar territory on the Paris clay, while Matteo Arnaldi and Flavio Cobolli sparked a remarkable Italian surge that guarantees the country a place in the final.

Still chasing the first Grand Slam title of his career, Zverev showed again why he remains one of the most consistent players at Roland-Garros. The German advanced to his fifth French Open semi-final in his last six appearances after defeating Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar in straight sets, enhancing his credentials as the most experienced player left in the draw.

Between Zverev and another final in Paris stands Czech teenager Jakub Menšík, one of the brightest young talents on the ATP Tour. While Menšík has enjoyed a breakthrough fortnight, Zverev’s experience from the latter stages of the majors could prove crucial as he looks to go one step further than his runner-up finish two years ago.

ITALY GUARANTEE A FINALIST IN PARIS

The bigger story, however, may belong to Italy. Even after the early departure of top Italian star Jannik Sinner, the national depth was on full display throughout the tournament. For the first time, Matteo Arnaldi and Flavio Cobolli will meet in an all-Italy men’s Grand Slam semi-final, ensuring Italy will have a representative in Sunday’s championship match. Italians Arnaldi and Cobolli will compete for a place in the Roland Garros final (Photo Reuters)

Cobolli was arguably one of the standout performers of the tournament. A 24-year-old man produced an impressive comeback against fourth seed Felix Auger-Aliassim in the quarterfinalsrecovering from a set down to win in four sets. The win gave him his first appearance in a Grand Slam semifinal and continued a breakthrough season that has seen him become one of the ATP Tour’s fastest-rising players.

The Italian showed resilience over the course of the fortnight, losing only a handful of sets while displaying the athleticism and aggressive ground game that have become his hallmarks. His run also brought him to the brink of breaking into the world’s top 10.

ARNALDI’S GRIT MEETS COBOLLI’S MOMENT

Across the net will be fellow Italian Matteo Arnaldi, whose journey to the last four was built on perseverance and determination. Before reaching the semifinals, Arnaldi survived a marathon five-set battle against Frances Tiafoe and logged nearly 20 hours on court during the tournament. He then advanced from the quarter-finals after Matteo Berrettini was forced to withdraw due to injury.

Arnaldi’s ability to endure long matches and remain mentally composed was a defining feature of his campaign. While Cobolli comes with dynamism and confidence, Arnaldi has proven time and time again that he thrives when matches become physical and tactical battles.

We will have an Italian in the Roland Garros final!

Before the tournament, anyone would have nailed Jannik Sinner. But be Flavio Cobolli, Matteo Berrettini or Matteo Arnaldi.

Cobolli is already in the semi-finals, beating Felix Auger-Aliassime: 4/6 6/4 6/4 6/4.pic.twitter.com/og78S3qsQd— Raquete na Mo (@RaqueteNaMaoBR) June 3, 2026

Their semi-final represents more than a fight for a place in the final. It is also a reflection of Italy’s growing strength in men’s tennis. With several players now competing deep in Grand Slams and the nation continuing to excel in team competitions, Italian tennis appears healthier than ever.

As Paris prepares for semi-final day, two storylines dominate. Zverev is looking to capitalize on his best remaining opportunity to win a first Grand Slam title. Meanwhile, Arnaldi and Cobolli carry the hopes of an entire nation, with one of them guaranteed to make history by reaching a first grand final.

French Open Head-to-Head Semifinals

Alexander Zverev vs Jakub Menšík

Matches – 1 | Alexander Zverev – 1 | Jakub Menšík – 0

Flavio Cobolli vs Matteo Arnaldi

Matches – 2 | Flavio Cobolli – 1 | Matteo Arnaldi – 1

When to watch the French Open men’s singles semifinals

The first semi-final between Alexander Zverev and Jakub Menšík will start at 18:00 IST.

The second semi-final between Flavio Cobolli and Matteo Arnaldi will not start until 22:30 IST.

Where to watch the French Open men’s singles semi-finals

Sony Sports Network has the broadcast rights to the French Open. Live streaming of the men’s singles semi-finals will be available on Sony LIV and Fancode.

– The end

Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

05 Jun 2026 07:43 IST