Benjamin Hassan Becomes First Lebanese to Qualify for French Open in Open Era

Benjamin Hassan achieved a significant milestone on Friday, becoming the first Lebanese tennis player in the Open era to qualify for the main draw of the French Open. The 30-year-old secured his spot at Roland-Garros by defeating Japan’s James Trotter 6-2, 7-6(5) in the final round of the qualifying tournament.

Hassan’s path to the main draw involved three consecutive victories on the clay courts of Paris. His qualification marks another historic moment for Lebanese tennis, following Hady Habib’s achievement earlier this year at the Australian Open. In January, Habib became the first Lebanese player to win a Grand Slam singles match, defeating China’s Bu Yunchaokete in the first round.

Ranked No. 177 globally, Hassan has been a trailblazer for Lebanese tennis. Last summer, he represented Lebanon at the Paris Olympics, becoming the first tennis player from the country to do so. He recorded a notable victory against American Christopher Eubanks in the opening round, marking Lebanon’s first win in Olympic tennis competition.

The Lebanese Tennis Federation acknowledged Hassan’s accomplishment with a message of support, encouraging him to continue making the nation proud. In the first round of the French Open, Hassan is set to face Italy’s Matteo Gigante, who also progressed through the qualifying rounds.