Fils Shines on Clay, Set to Confront Sinner in Madrid SFs
French star set for a thrilling clash with Sinner
April 29, 2026
Image Courtesy: Getty Images
Arthur Fils makes history as the first Frenchman to reach the Madrid semi-finals after the event transitioned to clay courts in 2009.
By Sam Jacot
Arthur Fils extended his impressive winning streak to nine matches during the Mutua Madrid Open, avenging his earlier defeat to Jiri Lehecka in a riveting contest in the heart of Spain.
After a heart-wrenching loss to Lehecka in the Miami semi-finals just a month ago, Fils came back strong, decisively claiming a 6-3, 6-4 victory on the Manolo Santana Stadium court.
The 21-year-old took control from the baseline, showcasing his powerful groundstrokes and delivering an impeccable serving performance, never facing a break point in the 74-minute match.
“I am ecstatic to be in the semis here; the last couple of years, I didn’t win a match or even a set here. To reach the semis feels incredible,” Fils expressed after securing his second Masters 1000 semi-final appearance. “In slower, heavier conditions, I feel right at home. My fitness allows me to endure for three or four hours, and I’m feeling fantastic.”
Fils is set to face World No. 1 Jannik Sinner in the semi-finals on Friday, who triumphed over Rafael Jodar earlier in the day. Sinner holds a 1-0 lead in their Lexus ATP Head2Head series and is riding a 26-match winning streak at the Masters 1000 level, though Fils carries the momentum of his recent success.
Having lifted the title at the ATP 500 event in Barcelona earlier in April, Fils has improved his game with each match in Madrid, overcoming Ignacio Buse, Emilio Nava, Tomas Martin Etcheverry, and now Lehecka to become the first Frenchman to reach the semis in this tournament since 2009.
“It’s going to be a fantastic battle,” remarked Fils on his upcoming match with Sinner. “He’s the World No. 1 and an incredible champion. He’s claimed titles in Indian Wells, Miami, and Monte-Carlo. I’m going to give it my all and enjoy the experience on the court, especially as the underdog.”
With a remarkable 22-5 record according to the ATP Infosys Win/Loss Index since making his comeback in February after an eight-month rehab for a back injury, Fils is climbing the ranks and is now positioned at No. 17 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings following his recent triumph.
