Pierre-Hugues Herbert falls to Lorenzo Sonego in five sets at Roland-Garros 2026

Paris – 25.05.2026: Pierre-Hugues Herbert, 35 years old, after a successful qualification for the main draw of Roland-Garros, delivered an impressive performance on Sunday at the Simonne-Mathieu court. Despite his age and the long journey through the qualifiers, he entered the match with great determination against the Italian player Lorenzo Sonego.

The first set started with intense rallies, both players exploiting their strengths. Herbert, known for his precise serves and skillful net attacks, quickly put Sonego under pressure. However, neither player could break away decisively, so the set was decided in an exciting tiebreak. Sonego prevailed 7-3 and won the first set.

In the second set, Herbert showed a strong reaction. He skillfully varied his play and used his experience to push Sonego into making more and more errors. With a solid 7-5, the Frenchman took the set and leveled at 1-1.

The third set began with an early break by Sonego, who continued his aggression and dominated Herbert with intense play. Herbert fought bravely, but Sonego gave him little room and won the set 6-2.

In the fourth set, Herbert returned to his best form. He skillfully varied his shots and pressured Sonego with precise serves and net attacks. With a convincing 6-1, Herbert took the set and equalized at 2-2.

The decisive fifth set began with a quick break by Sonego, who maintained his aggression and dominated Herbert with pressure play. Herbert fought courageously, but Sonego left him few opportunities and won the set 6-4. After 4 hours and 8 minutes, the final score was set: Sonego defeated Herbert 7-6(3), 5-7, 6-2, 1-6, and 6-4.

Despite the defeat, Herbert delivered an impressive performance and showed that he remains competitive at the highest level despite his advanced age. His fighting attitude and technical know-how were recognized by both spectators and experts. For Sonego, this victory means qualification for the second round of the tournament, where he will face another high-level opponent.

The match between Herbert and Sonego was a perfect example of the tenacity and passion that characterize tennis. Both players offered an exciting duel that captivated the audience until the last rally.