French Open Dream Realised For Toby Samuel After Incredible Qualifying Run

Samuel, had to progress through three rounds of French Open qualifying to book his place in the main draw on the clay courts on Roland Garros.

Following his qualification, he has risen into the world’s top 150 in the latest chapter of his fairy tale story.

After suffering from an injury to his right arm for the majority of the 2024 season Samuel slipped to almost 2000^th in the rankings.

On his return the Winchester-born player won 36 of his 39 matches on the ATP Challenger Tour at the end of 2025 and climbed more places in the rankings than any other player on the men’s tour in that year.

Samuel has carried that form into 2026, claiming back to back Challenger titles in March as part of a 15-match winning streak.

He said: “”It’s a massive reward for me, my whole team and family just to watch me at this event.

“Playing in the main draw you’re surrounded by all the top guys, and that’s where I want to be.

“Getting through to the main draw is a dream come true. It’s huge validation for all the work I’ve put in.”

The numbers behind Samuel’s rise are incredible:

• Since the end of 2024, he has risen 1,786 places to 159 in the current rankings
• In the past year he has won 67 of his 80 matches
• Reaching the Roland Garros main draw means he has boosted his career prize money total by 63.5% this week

Samuel is guaranteed to receive at least £75,200 in prize money following his qualification which will almost double his career earnings so far.

After getting past former world number seven David Goffin on Wednesday, Samuel fought back from a set down against Peru’s Gonzalo Bueno to win 5-7 6-1 6-3 in Paris.

It was a second memorable comeback in as many days, with Samuel having beat Goffin 5-7 6-3 6-3 after toppling American Martin Damm Jr.

Now, he must now prepare for the biggest match of his career after overcoming the 185th-ranked Bueno.