Jordan Thompson Wins Fifth-Set Epic to Reach Wimbledon Last 16

Jordan Thompson has fought through severe physical challenges, including a debilitating back injury, to reach the third round of Wimbledon 2025 after winning two consecutive five-set matches. Despite wearing a thick black back brace and relying on painkillers, Thompson defeated Benjamin Bonzi in a nearly four-hour match, demonstrating resilience and tactical adjustments such as a modified serve and increased net play to ease his physical strain. The 31-year-old Australian, ranked 44th after an injury-plagued season, acknowledged the toll on his body but credited his competitive spirit for his survival in the tournament. Support from Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt, the last Australian man to win Wimbledon, has been a motivational factor, with Thompson famously signaling to Hewitt that he has "some ticker" after his victory. Thompson plans to take an indefinite break after Wimbledon to recover but remains committed to the traditional five-set format, opposing calls for shorter matches. His next opponent will be either Luciano Darderi or Arthur Fery, with a win advancing him to the last 16 at Wimbledon for the first time in his career.