Arthur Fils Withdraws from Roland-Garros Due to Hip Injury, Shakes Up French Tennis Hopes

Absent depuis son abandon à Rome le 9 mai dernier, le numéro un français et meilleur chance tricolore pour Roland-Garros, Arthur Fils a annoncé ce samedi 23 mai son forfait pour les Internationaux de France. Le 19e mondial est blessé à la hanche.

French tennis star Arthur Fils has withdrawn from the 2026 Roland-Garros tournament due to a persistent hip injury, dealing a significant blow to France’s hopes in the clay-court major. The 21-year-old, ranked No. 19 in the world, cited ongoing pain around his hip after a difficult performance at the Rome Masters earlier this month. His absence leaves a void in the French singles draw, as he was considered the country’s top medal contender.

The Injury and Withdrawal Decision

Fils revealed during a press conference on Saturday that he experienced severe hip discomfort during his Rome Masters campaign, which culminated in a first-round exit on May 9. “The pain was significant and didn’t subside, so I didn’t want to risk further damage,” he stated. The ATP Tour reported that the Frenchman opted for a precautionary withdrawal to focus on recovery, though the exact nature of the injury remains under evaluation.

The decision comes after a turbulent start to the 2026 season for Fils, who has battled recurring hip issues since 2024. His withdrawal from the Monte Carlo Masters in April and subsequent struggles at the Madrid Open highlighted the fragility of his physical condition. The 2026 Roland-Garros organizers confirmed the news in a brief statement, emphasizing their support for the player’s health.

Impact on the French Tennis Landscape

Fils’ absence creates a significant gap in the French men’s singles bracket. As the country’s highest-ranked player, his withdrawal shifts the focus to rising stars like Corentin Moutet (No. 33) and Ugo Humbert (No. 46), who will now carry the hopes of the French crowd. The 2026 tournament, set to begin on May 27, will now lack its most high-profile homegrown contender.

The French Tennis Federation (FFT) released a statement expressing disappointment but reiterated its commitment to Fils’ recovery. “Arthur’s dedication to the sport is inspiring, and we’re confident he’ll return stronger,” said FFT spokesperson Marine Lefèvre. Meanwhile, tournament director Guy Forget acknowledged the challenge of replacing a player of Fils’ caliber but emphasized the depth of the current French squad.

Previous Struggles and Recovery Timeline

Fils’ hip issues first surfaced during the 2024 US Open, where he withdrew in the third round. Subsequent scans revealed a stress reaction in the acetabulum, leading to a six-week rehabilitation period. Despite returning in 2025, he struggled with consistency, finishing the season with a 22-15 record on the ATP Tour.

Medical experts suggest that Fils’ current injury may require a similar recovery timeline. Dr. Laurent Moreau, a sports orthopedist at Paris Saint-Joseph Hospital, noted, “Hip injuries in athletes are