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Qualifier Hady Habib described his history-making Australian Open win as “the biggest achievement” of his career after he became the first player from war-damaged Lebanon to win a Grand Slam match.<\/b><\/p>\n
The world number 219 won three qualifying matches in Melbourne to become the first man to represent his nation in a major singles tournament.<\/p>\n
On Sunday, the Texas-born Habib beat China’s Bu Yunchaokete 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 7-6 (8-6) to reach the second round, triggering jubilant scenes among his passionate support in the stands of court 13.<\/p>\n
The 26-year-old, who moved back to Lebanon before returning to the US to focus on his tennis, held up a Lebanese flag after sealing victory in the third-set tie-break.<\/p>\n
“This is the biggest achievement I’ve had in my entire career,” said Habib, who represented Lebanon at the Paris 2024 Olympics.<\/p>\n
He added: “It’s such an incredible feeling to get this win, not only for myself but for Lebanon and Lebanese tennis.<\/p>\n
“As you guys could see there, the crowd was absolutely wild. It made it even more special to win in front of them.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n