Flavio Cobolli faced a tough defeat in the French Open 2026 final on Sunday, June 7, losing a thrilling five-set match against Alexander Zverev from Germany at Roland Garros. Although he didn’t take home the title, Cobolli’s heartfelt reflections after the match highlighted his incredible journey to his first Grand Slam final.
The event marked a significant turning point for the Italian player, who exceeded all his previous performances in Grand Slam tournaments. His remarkable effort put him toe-to-toe with one of the best players in the world on such a grand stage.
“I want to thank myself for what I achieved in these two weeks. I never expected this kind of result. I’m really proud of myself. Tonight, I want to celebrate with my loved ones,” Cobolli shared with reporters after the match.
His words carried a mix of pride and bittersweet disappointment. Before the trophy ceremony, he lightheartedly remarked on the tight nature of the match, expressing a wish for another shot at the championship.
He also extended his congratulations to Zverev after their intense battle, saying, “I’m happy for you, but I’m also sad because I was so close. I can feel it now that you’ve achieved your dream. Next time, let me have a chance to win!”
The Musketeers Cup was awarded to Zverev by former French champion Adriano Panatta, the last Italian man to secure a victory at Roland Garros back in 1976, adding an emotional touch to the moment.
### A BREAKTHROUGH FOR COBOLLI
Cobolli poured his heart out on Court Philippe-Chatrier, chasing his first Grand Slam title but acknowledged that the pressure of such a significant occasion affected the final result. The 24-year-old had never reached past the quarter-finals in a major event before, making his journey to the final one of the standout stories of the tournament.
His achievement also underscores the rising talent in Italian tennis, with Cobolli representing a new wave of players making their mark on the ATP Tour.
The final against Zverev was a gripping contest, filled with momentum shifts, and ended with a score of 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-1 in favor of Zverev. Cobolli’s determination shone through as he battled back from setbacks, pushing the match to a deciding set before Zverev pulled away late.
Despite the loss, Cobolli’s performance significantly boosted his reputation. Throughout the tournament, he showcased improved consistency, mental strength, and the ability to compete against top-level opponents under pressure.
