What is behind Flavio Cobolli’s French Open success? A Rafael Nadal tradition has suddenly entered the spotlight

Flavio Cobolli is having the best Grand Slam run of his career, and the Italian believes a small French Open tradition may be helping him along the way. After reaching his first Grand Slam semifinal at Roland Garros, Cobolli revealed that he has been using the same locker room shower once used by Rafael Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion.

The story quickly caught fans’ attention because it connects one of tennis’ biggest rising stars with one of the sport’s greatest players. Cobolli shared the amusing detail after defeating fourth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals. While hard work and strong tennis have clearly been the biggest reasons behind his success, the 24-year-old joked that Nadal’s longtime shower stall might be bringing him a little extra luck. Speaking to reporters after the match, Cobolli explained how the routine started and why he has continued following it throughout the tournament.

Flavio Cobolli says Rafael Nadal’s longtime shower has become part of his French Open routine

During his post-match press conference, Flavio Cobolli revealed that he has been using the same shower stall that Rafael Nadal used for many years at Roland Garros.

“Rafael Nadal told me that it was his shower since 14 years,” Cobolli said. “So I think the best thing that I’m doing is the shower.”

The Italian then shared a memory from Nadal’s playing days. Cobolli recalled being in the shower when he heard a knock on the door. It turned out to be Nadal, who wanted to use the stall he had been using for years.

Cobolli admitted he can be a little superstitious when he is playing well. This week, he has followed the same habits every day.

“I’m a little bit superstitious, but not crazy,” he said. “This week I’m a little bit more crazy than the others. I just go to the same restaurant, the same menu, the same shower.”

The routine appears to be working. After dropping the opening set against Felix Auger-Aliassime, Cobolli fought back to win 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 and secure a place in the semifinals.

“The first set was incredibly windy, and it was really tough to play,” Cobolli said. “I went to the toilet to think a bit. I tried to change something.”

He added: “I thought, ‘This is the best court I’ve played on in my life because I can show my best tennis.’ I said to myself to fight. This is the chance of my life, and I must give everything in all my matches.”

Next, Cobolli will face fellow Italian Matteo Arnaldi for a place in the French Open final. Arnaldi also reached his first Grand Slam semifinal after advancing from his quarterfinal match against Matteo Berrettini, who retired because of injury.