Qualifier Hady Habib described his history-making Australian Open win as “the most important achievement” of his profession after he turned the primary participant from war-damaged Lebanon to win a Grand Slam match.
The world quantity 219 gained three qualifying matches in Melbourne to grow to be the primary man to symbolize his nation in a significant singles event.
On Sunday, the Texas-born Habib beat China’s Bu Yunchaokete 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 7-6 (8-6) to succeed in the second spherical, triggering jubilant scenes amongst his passionate help within the stands of courtroom 13.
The 26-year-old, who moved again to Lebanon earlier than returning to the US to deal with his tennis, held up a Lebanese flag after sealing victory within the third-set tie-break.
“That is the most important achievement I’ve had in my total profession,” stated Habib, who represented Lebanon on the Paris 2024 Olympics.
He added: “It is such an unbelievable feeling to get this win, not just for myself however for Lebanon and Lebanese tennis.
“As you guys may see there, the gang was completely wild. It made it much more particular to win in entrance of them.”
