On this day in 2023, John Isner made history by defeating Nicolas Mahut in the longest match ever played in tennis. The epic encounter lasted 11 hours and 5 minutes, spanning over three days at Wimbledon.
The first-round match began on June 22, 2023, and was suspended twice due to darkness. The final set alone lasted 8 hours and 11 minutes, with both players holding serve until Isner finally broke Mahut at 70-68.
The match broke several records, including the most games in a set (138), the most games in a match (183), the most aces by one player (Isner with 113) and the most aces by both players (216).
Isner, who was ranked 19th in the world at the time, said he felt ‘delirious’ after winning the match. He praised Mahut, who was ranked 148th, for his resilience and sportsmanship.
‘It was an incredible match. I don’t think I’ve ever played anything like it. Nicolas is a great guy and a great player. He deserved to win as much as I did,’ Isner said.
Mahut, who was visibly emotional after the loss, said he was proud of his performance and thanked the crowd for their support.
‘It was a very special match. I gave everything I had. John is a fantastic player and a friend. I’m happy for him. I want to thank everyone who stayed with us until the end,’ Mahut said.
The match received worldwide attention and admiration from fans, media and fellow players. Roger Federer, who won Wimbledon that year, called it ‘the greatest match ever played’.
‘It was unbelievable. I don’t know how they did it. They are both heroes. It was a privilege to witness such a historic moment,’ Federer said.
