British wildcard Arthur Fery produced a stunning five-set comeback to defeat Zizou Bergs of Belgium 2-6, 7-5, 2-6, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (5) on Saturday, advancing to the fourth round of Wimbledon for the first time. The 23-year-old world No. 114 collapsed to the grass after clinching victory on Court 18, marking the longest match of the tournament so far.
Fery overcomes multiple setbacks
Fery required treatment three times for nosebleeds during the match, which lasted over four hours in sweltering heat. He also faced an opponent ranked 77 places higher and a partisan crowd that had seen all other British players eliminated. 'I don't know what's going on right now,' Fery said. 'It's going to take some time to digest. Just tried to stay in the match. Just tried to be the best fighter I could.'
Despite 106 unforced errors and 18 double faults between the two players, the match was filled with drama. Bergs, named after Zinedine Zidane, was warned for spitting on the court and later criticized Fery for celebrating prematurely. Fery's coach Jérôme Bernard advised him to focus on placement rather than power: 'Play with width. And on your serve, serve for the forehand, not for the ace. You serve for your next shot.'
Historic achievement for British tennis
Fery becomes only the fifth British man this century to reach the second week at Wimbledon, joining Tim Henman, Greg Rusedski, Andy Murray and Cameron Norrie. He is also the first British wildcard to reach round four since Andrew Foster in 1993. The victory lifts him into the world's top 100, earning automatic entry into future Grand Slams.
Fery was born in Paris to French parents and attended the US college system. His father, a hedge-fund owner, is one of the richest men in France. Despite his privileged background, Fery's grit and determination were on full display as he saved multiple breaks in the fourth and fifth sets before prevailing in a 10-point tie-break.
Next challenge: Grigor Dimitrov
Fery will face Grigor Dimitrov in the fourth round. Dimitrov advanced after a hard-fought victory over Matteo Berrettini. 'This place has always been home for me,' Fery said, reflecting on his upbringing near the Wimbledon grounds. The win not only propels him into the spotlight but also provides a rare bright spot for British tennis amid questions about the Lawn Tennis Association's funding.
