American tennis player Zachary Svajda has notched a signature win at the French Open — on his late dad’s birthday.
Svajda beat No. 25 seed Francisco Cerundolo 6-3, 6-4, 3-6, 4-6, 6-3 on Saturday to move into the fourth round of a Grand Slam for the first time.
And it was a doubly emotional day for Svajda, 23, as he earned the win on what would have been the 61st birthday of his father, Thomas.
“It’s like I’m dreaming right now, in a dream. It’s crazy,” the California native told reporters after the win.
“Today was so special, too, because it’s also my dad’s birthday. I know he’s watching from above. It just makes it so special.”
Thomas, who died on Oct. 13, according to his obituary, had served as Svajda’s coach.
The rising star, who entered the match ranked No. 85 in the world, told TNT that he was brought to tears on Saturday and shared what his dad would’ve told him ahead of the match.
“Every time I step on court, just enjoy it and believe in yourself. And knowing that I could beat anyone on any given day. And so I thought about that today,” he said.
He also spoke about his surprise at beating clay specialist Cerundolo and lasting into the second week at Roland Garros.
“I knew I would get good on the clay,” Svajda said. “I thought maybe in a few years, but I never expected right now. I’m very grateful and blessed and just taking it all in.”
Svajda will face No. 10 seed Flavio Cobolli in the fourth round on Monday.
