The 2026 Roland-Garros tennis tournament is set to be a thrilling affair, with a group of unseeded players poised to make a splash. These 10 men, despite not being among the top seeds, are hungry for success and could potentially cause upsets that will shake up the tennis world. Here's a breakdown of these players and why they could be the dark horses of the tournament.
Gael Monfils: A French Icon's Final Stand
Gael Monfils, a French tennis icon, is set to make his 18th appearance at Roland-Garros. At 36 years old, he's a veteran of the clay courts, and his passion for the sport remains unwavering. With a 1-2 record on clay this season, Monfils is determined to put on a show for the French fans. His close-up image of tennis shoes caked in terre battue is a testament to his dedication and the fact that his days as a top player at his home Slam are likely numbered. Monfils' mission is clear: prolong his farewell tour as long as possible.
Alexander Blockx: The Rising Belgian Star
Alexander Blockx, a 21-year-old Belgian, has been on a remarkable claycourt swing. He reached the third round in Monte Carlo, beating a top-20 player, and then made waves in Madrid. Blockx's breakthrough performance includes defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime, securing his first top-10 victory, and reaching the ATP Masters 1000 semifinal. With his rising form and talent, Blockx is a player to watch, especially if he can maintain his momentum on the clay.
Hamad Medjedovic: The Serbian Sensation
Hamad Medjedovic, a 22-year-old Serbian, has been on a roll since his third-round showing in Paris last year. His savagely whipping forehand has been a key to his success. Medjedovic started his claycourt season with an impressive ATP Challenger title in Napoli and then made it to the semifinals in Barcelona, outmuscling a top-20 player. His performance in Rome, where he reached the fourth round, further solidifies his status as a rising star on the clay.
Stan Wawrinka: The Swiss Sentimental Favorite
Stan Wawrinka, a Swiss veteran, is making his farewell tour to Roland-Garros. Eleven years ago, he won the tournament, and now he's seeking one last glorious moment. Wawrinka's iconic checked shorts and his love for the French capital make him a sentimental favorite. Despite his age, he's determined to extend his stay beyond the opening round, just as he did at Melbourne Park earlier this year.
Thiago Tirante: The Argentine Serving Machine
Thiago Tirante, an Argentine, has become a force to be reckoned with on the clay. At 25 years old, he's showcasing some of the biggest serving on tour. Tirante's victories over top-20 opponents, including Cameron Norrie and Cobolli, have propelled him to the fourth round at the Rome Masters. His success in Madrid and Houston further cements his status as a claycourt specialist.
Stefanos Tsitsipas: The Greek Champion
Stefanos Tsitsipas, a former world No.3, has faced some form challenges recently. However, he knows what it takes to succeed on the clay, having won the Monte-Carlo Masters three times and reached the 2021 Roland-Garros final. Tsitsipas' experience and skill make him a potential dark horse, especially if he can find his rhythm on the French clay.
Hubert Hurkacz: The Big-Serving Pole
Hubert Hurkacz, a former world No.6, has been dealing with a knee injury but has shown glimpses of his talent. The big-serving Pole has won over 15th seed Luciano Darderi in Monte-Carlo and reached an ATP Challenger final in Cagliari. With a new coach, Gilles Cervara, Hurkacz is looking to make a comeback and prove his worth on the clay.
Martin Landaluce: The Rising Spanish Star
Martin Landaluce, a 20-year-old Spaniard, is part of a new wave of Spanish success. With Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Jodar already making waves, Landaluce is delivering on his own hype. His maiden ATP Masters 1000 quarterfinal in Miami and a claycourt quarterfinal in Rome showcase his multi-surface talent. Landaluce's rise is a testament to the strength of Spanish tennis.
Ignacio Buse: The Peruvian Contender
Ignacio Buse, a 22-year-old Peruvian, has been on a remarkable claycourt run. He secured his second top-20 win over Cobolli in Hamburg, lifting his ATP record on clay to an impressive 15-1. Buse's ability to handle pressure, as seen in his battle against Fonseca, makes him a dangerous opponent. His performance in Rio de Janeiro further cements his status as a rising star in South American tennis.
Dino Prizmic: The Croatian Ball-Striker
Dino Prizmic, a 20-year-old Croatian, first captured attention with his four-hour battle against Novak Djokovic in the 2024 Australian Open. He then snapped up his first top-10 win over Ben Shelton in Madrid and qualified for the Rome Masters. Prizmic's explosive ball-striking ability makes him a player to watch, especially if he can maintain his form on the clay.
These 10 unseeded players bring a unique dynamic to the 2026 Roland-Garros tournament. Their hunger, talent, and determination make them potential dark horses, capable of causing upsets and making a deep run. As the draws are made, opponents will be wary, and tennis fans will be treated to some exciting matches. The clay courts of Roland-Garros will witness the rise of these unseeded challengers, adding to the tournament's allure and unpredictability.
