Roland Garros is set for a historic Thursday. None of the four men's semifinalists has ever won a Grand Slam title. Alexander Zverev, world No. 3 and the most experienced player remaining, takes on Czech rising star Jakub Mensik, just 20 years old and ranked 27th. On the other half of the draw, Italy celebrates a unique moment as Flavio Cobolli, ranked 14th, faces Matteo Arnaldi, ranked 104th.
Zverev remains the clear favorite. The 29-year-old German is still chasing his first major title, having fallen short in the 2020 US Open final and the 2024 Roland Garros final. His path to the last four has been convincing, with a commanding quarterfinal victory over Rafael Jodar (7-6(3), 6-1, 6-3). He already has a measure of Mensik, having beaten the Czech in Madrid this season (6-4, 6-7(4), 6-3), though that match showed the youngster's ability to push the very best.
Mensik is experiencing the best stretch of his young career. At 20, he is contesting his first Grand Slam semifinal after dispatching Joao Fonseca in the quarterfinals (6-4, 6-3, 7-6(3)). The Czech possesses a devastating serve and an attacking game that can trouble anyone. His youth is both his strength, bringing fearlessness, and his potential weakness, given his lack of experience on the biggest stages.
On the other side of the draw, Italy is celebrating an unprecedented moment. Cobolli and Arnaldi will battle for a place in the final, guaranteeing an Italian presence in the title match. Cobolli has shown growing maturity this season, exemplified by his solid win over Felix Auger-Aliassime (4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4). Arnaldi advanced after Matteo Berrettini retired with a left hip injury while trailing 7-5, 5-2.
Four players, four different journeys, and the certainty of a first-time Grand Slam champion on Sunday. Roland Garros 2026 continues to rewrite history.
