Marton Fucsovics Makes History as First Lucky Loser at Wimbledon

Marton Fucsovics, a 33-year-old Hungarian tennis player, has made history by becoming the first lucky loser to reach the third round of Wimbledon in the Open Era. After narrowly missing out on direct qualification, Fucsovics capitalized on an opportunity presented by Borna Coric's withdrawal, a twist of fate that has propelled him into the spotlight at the prestigious tournament. His remarkable journey at Wimbledon includes two grueling five-set matches, where he demonstrated exceptional resilience against opponents Aleksandar Kovacevic and Gael Monfils, both of whom posed significant challenges on the court.

Fucsovics' path to the third round is a testament to his enduring spirit and determination. In an interview with ATPTour.com, he recounted his feelings of disappointment after losing in the final round of qualifying. However, upon receiving the call about Coric's withdrawal, he seized the opportunity with a conviction that he belonged among the elite players in the tournament. "When I got the chance to play in the main draw that evening, I knew I belonged here," Fucsovics stated, affirming his confidence and belief in his capabilities.

Historically, Wimbledon holds a special significance for Fucsovics, who won the boys' singles title in 2010 and reached the quarter-finals of the main draw in 2021, marking his best performance at a Grand Slam event. His recent performance has seen him climb 17 spots to No. 88 in the PIF ATP Live Rankings, as of July 4, 2025, showcasing his potential for further success in the sport.

Fucsovics’ stamina was put to the test during his match against Monfils, especially when the Frenchman served for the match in the fourth set. Fucsovics displayed his tenacity by fighting back to win a critical tie-break, forcing a decisive final set. The match was halted due to darkness but resumed the following day, during which Fucsovics showcased his skills, including a remarkable 'tweener' volley that exemplified his agility and strategic play. "I was very motivated and I really wanted to win this match," he remarked after the victory.

In preparation for his upcoming match against World No. 10 Ben Shelton, Fucsovics expressed his enthusiasm for competing at Wimbledon, citing it as one of his favorite Grand Slam events. He acknowledged the hard work he had put in over the past months, particularly after overcoming injuries that hindered his performance in the previous season. "I have nothing to lose," he said, emphasizing his readiness to compete at a high level.

Fucsovics’ story not only illustrates the unpredictability of sports but also reflects the broader themes of perseverance and opportunity that resonate with athletes around the world. As he prepares for his next match, the tennis community watches closely, eager to see if he can continue his historic run at this year's Wimbledon.