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The men’s singles draw at Roland-Garros has taken an unexpected shape, but it has also produced one of the most compelling semifinal line-ups in recent memory. With several pre-tournament favourites out of contention, Alexander Zverev finds himself in familiar territory on the Paris clay, while Matteo Arnaldi and Flavio Cobolli have sparked a remarkable Italian surge that guarantees the country a place in the final.
Zverev, still chasing the first Grand Slam title of his career, has once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most consistent performers at Roland-Garros. The German advanced to his fifth French Open semifinal in his last six appearances after defeating Spanish teenager Rafael Jodar in straight sets, strengthening his credentials as the most experienced player left in the draw.
Standing between Zverev and another Paris final is Czech teenager Jakub Mensik, one of the brightest young talents on the ATP Tour. While Mensik has enjoyed a breakthrough fortnight, Zverev’s experience in the latter stages of majors could prove decisive as he seeks to go one step further than his runner-up finish two years ago.
ITALY GUARANTEES A FINALIST IN PARIS
The bigger story, however, may belong to Italy. Even after the early exit of top-ranked Italian star Jannik Sinner, the nation’s depth has been on full display throughout the tournament. For the first time, Matteo Arnaldi and Flavio Cobolli will contest an all-Italian men’s semifinal at a Grand Slam, ensuring that Italy will have a representative in Sunday’s championship match.
Cobolli has arguably been one of the standout performers of the tournament. The 24-year-old produced an impressive comeback against fourth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals, recovering from a set down to prevail in four sets. The victory secured his maiden Grand Slam semifinal appearance and continued a breakthrough season that has seen him emerge as one of the ATP Tour’s fastest-rising players.
The Italian has shown resilience throughout the fortnight, dropping only a handful of sets while displaying the athleticism and aggressive baseline game that have become his trademarks. His run has also put him on the verge of breaking into the world’s top 10.
ARNALDI’S GRIT MEETS COBOLLI’S MOMENTUM
Across the net will be fellow Italian Matteo Arnaldi, whose journey to the last four has been built on endurance and determination. Before reaching the semifinals, Arnaldi survived a marathon five-set battle against Frances Tiafoe and accumulated nearly 20 hours on court during the tournament. He then advanced from the quarterfinals after Matteo Berrettini was forced to retire through injury.
Arnaldi’s ability to withstand long matches and remain mentally composed has been a defining feature of his campaign. While Cobolli arrives with momentum and confidence, Arnaldi has repeatedly demonstrated that he thrives when matches become physical and tactical battles.
Their semifinal represents more than a battle for a place in the final. It is also a reflection of Italy’s growing strength in men’s tennis. With multiple players now competing deep into Grand Slams and the nation continuing to excel in team competitions, Italian tennis appears healthier than ever.
As Paris prepares for semifinal day, two storylines dominate. Zverev is attempting to seize what could be his best remaining opportunity to capture a maiden Grand Slam title. Meanwhile, Arnaldi and Cobolli are carrying the hopes of an entire nation, with one of them guaranteed to make history by reaching a first major final.
French Open semifinals Head-to-Head
Alexander Zverev vs Jakub Mensik
Matches – 1 | Alexander Zverev – 1 | Jakub Mensik – 0
Flavio Cobolli vs Matteo Arnaldi
Matches – 2 | Flavio Cobolli – 1 | Matteo Arnaldi – 1
When to watch French Open men’s singles semifinals
The first semifinal between Alexander Zverev and Jakub Mensik will start at 6 PM IST.
The second semifinal between Flavio Cobolli and Matteo Arnaldi won’t start before 10:30 PM IST.
Where to watch French Open men’s singles semifinals
Sony Sports Network has the broadcasting rights for the French Open. Live Streaming of the men’s singles semifinals will be available on Sony LIV and Fancode.
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