Hady Habib Becomes First Lebanese Player to Win Grand Slam Match
The 26-year-old qualifier made history at the Australian Open, bringing a moment of pride to a nation facing ongoing challenges.
- Hady Habib, ranked 219th in the world, defeated China's Bu Yunchaokete in straight sets to secure his place in the second round of the Australian Open.
- This victory marks the first time a Lebanese player, male or female, has won a Grand Slam main draw match in the Open era.
- Habib, born in Texas but raised in Lebanon for part of his childhood, has represented Lebanon in tennis since the age of 15.
- The win comes as Lebanon continues to grapple with the aftermath of a 14-month conflict and a fragile ceasefire, offering a rare moment of national celebration.
- Habib will face France's 14th seed Ugo Humbert in the second round, with hopes of playing on a larger court to accommodate more Lebanese supporters.