Mario Vukovic: A Historic Triumph at Les Petits As 2025
On January 26, 2025, Mario Vukovic made history for French tennis by winning the prestigious Les Petits As – Le Mondial Wilson tournament in Tarbes. This victory holds special significance as it ends an 11-year drought for French players at this competition, with the last triumph dating back to 2014.
At just 13 years old, Mario Vukovic, born on March 28, 2011, has established himself as one of the most promising young talents in French tennis. His journey through Les Petits As, often regarded as the unofficial world championship for players under 14, was marked by an impressive series of victories against high-level opponents. In the round of 16, he dominated Thomas Grévoul (6-2, 6-0), then secured a quarterfinal win against Hungary’s Vencel Fazekas. In the semifinals, he faced his compatriot and doubles partner, Samuel Dakessian, in an intense battle. Finally, in the championship match, he overpowered another rising star to claim the highly coveted title.
Les Petits As has long been a proving ground for future champions, with past winners including Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic. With this victory, Mario Vukovic follows in the footsteps of these great names and reignites hope for a new generation of French players.
This win marks a fresh start for French tennis, highlighting the depth and potential of the nation’s young talent. Mario Vukovic’s exemplary performance is an inspiration for future generations and a strong signal of the promising future of tennis in France.