Qualifier Hady Habib described his history-making Australian Open win as “the most important fulfillment” of his profession after he changed into the primary participant from war-damaged Lebanon to win a Grand Slam fit.
The arena quantity 219 received 3 qualifying fits in Melbourne to change into the primary guy to constitute his country in a big singles event.
On Sunday, the Texas-born Habib beat China’s Bu Yunchaokete 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 7-6 (8-6) to achieve the second one spherical, triggering jubilant scenes amongst his passionate improve within the stands of courtroom 13.
The 26-year-old, who moved again to Lebanon earlier than returning to the United States to concentrate on his tennis, held up a Lebanese flag after sealing victory within the third-set tie-break.
“That is the most important fulfillment I have had in my complete profession,” mentioned Habib, who represented Lebanon on the Paris 2024 Olympics.
He added: “It is such an out of this world feeling to get this win, now not just for myself however for Lebanon and Lebanese tennis.
“As you guys may just see there, the group used to be completely wild. It made it much more particular to win in entrance of them.”
