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

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

The first set began with intense rallies, during which both players exploited their strengths. Herbert, known for his precise serves and skillful net approaches, immediately put pressure on Sonego. However, neither managed to gain a decisive advantage, and the set was decided in an exciting tiebreak. Here Sonego prevailed 7-3, taking the first set.

In the second set Herbert showed a strong response. He skillfully varied his game and used his experience to induce Sonego into making more and more errors. With a solid 7-5, the Frenchman secured the set and leveled the score at 1-1.

The third set started with an early break by Sonego, who continued his aggression by dominating Herbert with relentless 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 put pressure on Sonego with precise serves and net attacks. With a convincing 6-1, Herbert won the set and tied the match at 2-2.

The decisive fifth set began with an early break by Sonego, who maintained his aggression and dominated Herbert with incisive play. Herbert fought valiantly, but Sonego left him little margin and won the set 6-4. After 4 hours and 8 minutes, the final result was set: Sonego defeated Herbert 7-6 (3), 5-7, 6-2, 1-6, 6-4.

Despite the defeat, Herbert showed a remarkable performance, proving he can compete at a very high level even at an advanced age. His fighting spirit and technical skill were recognized by both spectators and experts. For Sonego, this victory means advancing to the second round of the tournament, where he will face another strong opponent.

The match between Herbert and Sonego was a perfect example of the tireless fighting spirit and passion that characterize tennis. Both players delivered an exciting duel that kept spectators glued until the last rally.