Jordan Thompson is on the brink of his first-ever third-round appearance at Wimbledon after a hard-fought victory against Benjamin Bonzi, winning 7-5, 6-7(2), 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 in just under four hours. Despite battling significant back pain from a season plagued by injuries, Thompson showcased resilience, marking his second consecutive five-set win while playing with the support of Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt in the audience.
Ranked 44th after experiencing multiple injuries, including a herniated disk and muscle tears, Thompson had initially expressed uncertainty about his ability to compete against Bonzi. However, he managed to take the court with the help of a back brace and painkillers. After the match, he reflected on the ordeal, saying, “It’s been brutal. Winning the last point helps, but it’s more the relief…”
Thompson admitted that while the victory is satisfying, the toll on his body has been challenging. “It’s been super tough on my body, and I haven’t really been enjoying it that much,” he added. His performance against Bonzi was notably better than his first-round match, aided by a modified service technique that reduces strain on his back and an increased rush to the net, where he feels less discomfort.
The match unfolded with Thompson establishing a lead thanks to his net play, but Bonzi quickly adapted in the second set, winning a close tiebreak. With his back against the wall after losing the third set, Thompson broke Bonzi in the fourth at a crucial moment to keep his hopes alive. The final set was tense, with both players having break-point opportunities, but Thompson held firm, breaking at a pivotal moment to seal the match.
Looking ahead, Thompson is set to compete in doubles as well, while awaiting his next opponent, either Luciano Darderi or Arthur Fery. Winning this upcoming match could see him advance to the last 16 at Wimbledon for the first time, particularly as several top seeds have already exited the tournament. He acknowledges the favourable draw but also candidly remarks on his physical condition, stating, “There’s no beating around the bush; the draw could be a lot worse, but, you know, my body could be a lot better.”