Lebanese tennis player Hady Habib achieved a historic milestone at the Australian Open 2025, becoming the first male from his country to win a match in the men's singles main draw at a Grand Slam during the professional era. Habib triumphed over China's Bu Yunchaokete 7-6(4), 6-4, 7-6(6), advancing to the second round in a gripping encounter that lasted nearly three hours.
A historic victory for Lebanon
Habib’s victory is a breakthrough moment for Lebanon, as the 26-year-old became the first Lebanese male player to secure a win in a Grand Slam singles match in modern tennis history.
The crowd at Melbourne Park's Court 13 erupted in celebration, adding to the drama of the moment. The rowdy supporters, who packed the small terraces, cheered wildly as Habib made history, with the Texan-born athlete soaking in the atmosphere.
"It's such an incredible feeling to get this win not only for myself but for Lebanon and Lebanese tennis... the crowd was absolutely wild. It made it even more special to win in front of them," Habib said after the match.
With the crowd chanting his name, Habib raised his racket in the air, proudly displaying a Lebanese flag as a gesture of gratitude towards his home nation. His performance resonated with many, symbolizing hope for a nation facing challenging times.
Habib’s win amid Lebanon’s struggles
The timing of Habib's victory carries extra significance, as Lebanon continues to navigate political and social turmoil. The win comes after a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, following over a year of conflict. For Habib, this triumph serves as a beacon of positivity amid the hardships Lebanon is facing.
"I think to bring something positive... we've been having a rough time with obviously the war. We had our other issues in the past," he said, reflecting on the broader context of his achievement.
A Tennis journey from Lebanon to the World stage
Habib's journey has been both personal and patriotic. He moved to Lebanon at the age of six but later returned to the U.S. to further his tennis development as a junior. Habib represented Lebanon at the Paris Olympics and made history last year by winning an ATP Challenger Tour event in Chile, becoming Lebanon’s first player to secure such a title.
"I started to play tennis in Lebanon. I still have a lot of friends back there. My parents currently live there," Habib shared. "Hopefully, there’s going to be a larger audience to watch me play my next match. I think it’d be better if I played on a bigger court so that more Lebanese people can come out and watch me."
As Habib prepares for his next match, the hopes of his nation rest on his shoulders. His historic win has captured the hearts of many, and he’s eager to continue making waves on the global tennis stage, inspiring future generations of Lebanese athletes.