Cobolli Credits Nadal's Old Shower for French Open Semifinal Run

Flavio Cobolli, an unexpected Italian contender, has advanced to the French Open semifinals. The 24-year-old secured his spot by defeating the fourth-seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime in a four-set match. Cobolli, a compatriot of the earlier-eliminated Jannik Sinner, has embraced a new level of superstition at this year's tournament. He revealed that he is using the shower previously favored by 14-time champion Rafael Nadal, as he continues his surprising journey toward a maiden Grand Slam title.

Cobolli also emphasized his commitment to consistency, stating he is maintaining the same string tension in his racket and sticking to his daily routines. He opted for dinner with friends over watching fellow Italians Berrettini and Arnaldi compete, highlighting his focus on his own performance.

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I am a little superstitious, but not crazy. You know, this week I am a little crazier than usual. I go to the same restaurant, I order the same menu, I use the same shower. I think I said in the first press conference that I use the same shower as Rafa, because I have good memories of it.

"I am a little superstitious, but not crazy," Cobolli told reporters. "You know, this week I am a little crazier than usual. I go to the same restaurant, I order the same menu, I use the same shower. I think I said in the first press conference that I use the same shower as Rafa, because I have good memories of it."

Cobolli recounted an anecdote where Nadal once knocked on the shower door while Cobolli was using it, asking him to hurry. "He told me it's been his shower for 14 years," Cobolli added. "So I think the best thing I am doing this year... is the shower."

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He told me it's been his shower for 14 years. So I think the best thing I am doing this year... is the shower.