Patrick McEnroe Shares Views on Arthur Fils' Potential to Win a Grand Slam

Arthur Fils Seen as France's Next Grand Slam Hope

Arthur Fils is emerging as the top prospect to claim a Grand Slam singles title for France. The last French woman to win a major was Marion Bartoli, who took Wimbledon in 2013. For French men, the wait has been longer, with Yannick Noah capturing Roland Garros 43 years ago.

Currently ranked world number seven, Fils has had a breakthrough season, including winning his first Masters 1000 title at the Cincinnati Open and qualifying for this year's ATP Finals. At only 22, many see him as France’s brightest hope in men's tennis.

Patrick McEnroe Backs Fils if He Stays Healthy

Former Grand Slam doubles champion Patrick McEnroe spoke with Tennis Actu TV about Fils, addressing whether the young player can win a major. Fils has struggled with injuries recently, missing much of the previous season due to a stress fracture in his lower back. McEnroe expressed confidence that if Fils can maintain his fitness, he possesses the ability to win a Grand Slam.

"I like him a lot, he is an excellent player," McEnroe said. "I hope he can play all the time because he has been injured for a long time, but if he can play during the season I believe he can win a Grand Slam."

McEnroe also reflected on the ATP Finals, where Fils is competing after becoming the first Frenchman to qualify since Gael Monfils in 2026.

"It's only the top eight players from the world," McEnroe explained. "It's very special for the players and the elite of everyone. I think both are very difficult, but maybe the Grand Slams [are bigger] because there's a lot of pressure and a lot of weeks, but it's very difficult to win the Tour Finals too."

Fils’ Grand Slam Performance So Far

Although Fils has climbed into the top 10 after victories at the Cincinnati Masters and the Barcelona Open, he has yet to make a deep run at a major tournament. He has never reached a Grand Slam quarter-final. His best results came at Wimbledon, where he reached the fourth round in 2024, while the Australian Open and Roland Garros are tied for his best win-loss record.

In 2026, Grand Slams have been tough for Fils, with only one match won at majors this year. He missed the Australian Open and Roland Garros due to injury and exited in the first round of the US Open.

• Australian Open: 3-2 (60%) - Third Round (2025) - Did not play in 2026
• Roland Garros: 3-2 (60%) - Third Round (2025) - Did not play in 2026
• Wimbledon: 4-3 (57.1%) - Fourth Round (2024) - Second Round (2026)
• US Open: 2-3 (40%) - Second Round (2023 & 2024) - First Round (2026)

Fils now turns his attention to the Paris Masters and the ATP Finals to close out his season. After defeating Tomas Machac in his opening match in Paris, he will face Taylor Fritz. The American also aims to secure a spot at the ATP Finals, making their upcoming match a crucial one. The head-to-head record between Fils and Fritz stands even at one win each.