The men’s singles final lineup was officially confirmed on Friday after German star Alexander Zverev battled past Jakub Mensik in four sets, while Italian rising star Flavio Cobolli advanced without hitting a ball following Matteo Arnaldi’s late withdrawal.
Zverev produced another composed display on Court Philippe-Chatrier, defeating the dangerous Czech youngster Mensik 7-5, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 to book his place in a second Roland Garros final and the fourth Grand Slam final of his career.
The world No. 3 now stands just one victory away from finally winning his first Grand Slam title after suffering painful defeats in previous major finals, including the 2024 French Open final and the 2025 Australian Open final.
However, the biggest shock of the day came shortly before the second semi-final was scheduled to begin.
Italian star Matteo Arnaldi was forced to withdraw only minutes before his clash against compatriot Flavio Cobolli due to a viral illness. Reports revealed that Arnaldi suffered vomiting and dizziness overnight and was unable to properly recover despite medical treatment.
The withdrawal handed Cobolli a direct passage into his first-ever Grand Slam final — a historic achievement for the 24-year-old Italian.
Speaking after the announcement, Cobolli admitted the situation was emotional and difficult because of his friendship with Arnaldi.
“When he came to me an hour ago, I almost cried,” Cobolli said while reacting to the heartbreaking withdrawal.
Despite the unusual route into the final, Cobolli’s run in Paris has been remarkable. The Italian has enjoyed a breakthrough clay-court season and is now guaranteed to break into the ATP Top 10 rankings for the first time in his career.
Sunday’s final now presents a fascinating battle between experience and momentum.
Zverev enters the match as the favourite due to his experience at the highest level and his strong head-to-head advantage over Cobolli. However, the Italian has already shown he can trouble the German after defeating him earlier this season on clay in Munich before Zverev responded with victory in Madrid.
The final also guarantees a first-time men’s singles champion at Roland Garros in 2026, adding even more excitement to what promises to be a thrilling showdown in Paris.
For Zverev, it is another opportunity to erase years of Grand Slam heartbreak.
For Cobolli, it is the chance to complete one of the most remarkable breakthrough stories in modern tennis.
All eyes now turn to Sunday’s blockbuster final at Roland Garros.