The World’s Longest Tennis Match Lasted Over 11 Hours
- World Factually
- Apr 13
- 2 min read
Tennis is usually a test of endurance. But at Wimbledon 2010, one match didn’t just test endurance—it completely redefined it.
American John Isner and Frenchman Nicolas Mahut battled it out in what became the longest tennis match in history. The match spanned 11 hours and 5 minutes across three days, with a jaw-dropping final set score of 70–68 in Isner’s favour.
So… What Happened?
The match began on June 22, 2010. By the end of Day 1, they were still playing. Day 2? Still at it. Day 3? Still not done—until finally, Isner clinched it in the fifth set after 183 games in total.
For context: most tennis matches last 2–4 hours. This one went on so long, the scoreboard froze and broke. Literally.
Record-Breaking Moments
The match broke several records, including:
Longest match ever: 11 hours 5 minutes
Longest set ever: Final set lasted 8 hours 11 minutes
Most games in a match: 183
Most aces in a match: Isner served 113, Mahut 103
Most combined aces: 216
Most games in a set: 138 in the final set
It was such a phenomenon that both players received special recognition from the All England Club, and the match is now immortalised with a plaque on Court 18.
Why It Will Never Happen Again
In 2019, Wimbledon changed the rules. Matches that go to a final set now have a tiebreak at 12–12, ensuring no repeat marathons.
So, Isner vs. Mahut wasn’t just the longest match in history—it’s likely a record that will never be broken.
