Ever wonder if age is just a number in elite sports? Adrian Mannarino, 37, is rewriting the rules at the US Open with his incredible longevity and unique playing style. He’s proving that tactical brilliance can overcome raw power. What’s his secret to staying at the top?
Adrian Mannarino, at 37 years old, stands as a truly singular figure on the ATP Tour, embodying a timeless style of play that challenges conventional expectations of longevity and success in professional tennis. The seasoned Frenchman has carved out a career marked by unwavering resilience and an enduring presence, consistently demonstrating that skill and tactical acumen can triumph over the raw power often dominating the modern game. His recent performances have solidified his reputation as an athlete who continuously adapts and refines his craft, defying the physical demands typically associated with elite-level competition at his age.
While Mannarino’s trophy cabinet may appear modest with just five career ATP titles since his professional debut in 2008, his impact transcends mere statistics. His widespread admiration among peers and fans stems from his remarkable consistency and unwavering commitment to the sport, particularly evident in his ability to maintain a high level of performance year after year. Notably, he has surpassed 30 tour-level match wins in a single season only twice throughout his extensive career, with one of those instances occurring as recently as 2023, highlighting his extraordinary late-career surge.
Following a challenging start to 2025, where many speculated about an imminent retirement, Mannarino has experienced a profound resurgence in form, captivating the tennis world with his unique, flat, and exceptionally precise game. This distinct playing style, though lacking the sheer power seen in many of his contemporaries, has become increasingly menacing to opponents due to its consistent depth and intelligent placement. His tactical brilliance and exceptional court craft allow him to compensate for any physical limitations, enabling him to compete effectively against much younger and more physically imposing players on the ATP circuit.
This renewed vitality has translated into significant results, particularly leading into the US Open. After dispatching Tallon Griekspoor and Jordan Thompson in the early rounds at Flushing Meadows, Mannarino set up a highly anticipated third-round clash against Ben Shelton, a formidable, big-hitting server. Earlier in the summer, his impressive run at the Cincinnati Masters saw him qualify for the main draw and reach the fourth round, defeating seeded players Tomas Machac and Tommy Paul before a narrow defeat to Jannik Sinner, underscoring his capability to challenge top-tier talent.
Mannarino’s affinity for grass courts has also been a hallmark of his recent success. He reached the final at Newport and advanced to the third round at Wimbledon after a successful qualifying campaign, showcasing his versatility and comfort on various surfaces. Remarkably, three of his five career ATP titles have been secured since 2023, when he was already over 35, a testament to his ability to not only maintain but also significantly improve his game in the twilight of his career, challenging the common narrative of declining performance with age in professional tennis.
Experience has undoubtedly become Mannarino’s most potent asset. While his career record against top-10 players stands at 10–60, a significant three of those victories occurred in 2023 alone, including two on his favored grass courts. At the US Open, he has a history of pushing elite competitors to their limits, notably battling Andy Murray to five sets in 2015 and engaging in a fierce contest with Frances Tiafoe in 2023, demonstrating his unwavering resolve and ability to make every point a hard-fought battle, even in defeat.
Beyond the statistics, Mannarino has earned immense respect for his incredible resilience. He famously adapted his swing in 2015 to mitigate a painful hand injury and has continued to compete and win matches despite ongoing struggles with his knee, hip, and hand. His choice of a remarkably light racket, weighing just 8 kilos, further exemplifies his self-awareness and tactical mastery, enabling him to maximize his precision, craft, and tactical intelligence against physically stronger opponents. This strategic approach makes him an inspiring figure for aspiring tennis players globally.
A potential victory over Ben Shelton in the US Open third round would undeniably represent a monumental achievement in Mannarino’s illustrious career, serving as a powerful symbol of his enduring relevance and the timeless quality inherent in his unique game. At 37, he continues to affirm that attributes such as intelligence, adaptability, and unwavering perseverance remain as crucial as raw speed and explosive power on the highly competitive modern ATP Tour. Mannarino has publicly expressed his intention to continue playing for as long as his body allows, promising more captivating performances from the French veteran.
