Aryna Sabalenka’s French Open run ended in a shock quarter-final defeat as Diana Shnaider produced one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, after recovering from a set and double-break deficit to win 3-6, 7-5, 6-0.
Sabalenka, the overwhelming favourite after the early exits of Coco Gauff, Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina, appeared in control at 6-3, 4-1 on Court Philippe-Chatrier and later served for the match at 5-4 in the second set. From there, Shnaider broke three times to take the set, and raced through the third without reply.
Echoes of past struggles
The turnaround carried echoes of Sabalenka’s defeat in last year’s final. She lost 10 straight games and 12 of the last 13, unable to halt the slide as Shnaider took over.
The wind, a recurring issue for Sabalenka in Paris, played its part. Blustery conditions disrupted her rhythm, just as they had in previous years. Shnaider, by contrast, stayed composed, extending rallies and forcing Sabalenka to hit one more ball. The world No 1 game unravelled as the Russian’s belief grew.
For Shnaider, this marked a breakthrough win. Seeded 25th and playing in her first Grand Slam quarter-final, she adjusted quickly after a shaky opening set. Her baseline hitting grew heavier, her court coverage sharper, and her consistency in longer rallies paid off as Sabalenka’s performance dipped.
By the third set, Shnaider was in control. She raced to a double-break lead, held firm under pressure, and ended the match with authority. The 22-year-old will now move into her first major semi-final, where she faces Polish qualifier Maja Chwalińska. This represents a remarkable opportunity for both players.
Sabalenka left with questions
Sabalenka’s wait for a maiden French Open title continues. Despite her power and early dominance, she could not steady herself once the match became tight. Her serve faltered, her shot selection wavered, and the composure from earlier rounds faded.
This defeat marks one of her most painful exits, given the draw had opened up favourably. It is only the second time in her last 14 Slams that she has failed to reach at least the semi-finals.
With Sabalenka gone, the women’s draw is guaranteed a first-time Grand Slam champion. Shnaider’s semi-final against Chwalińska adds another twist to a tournament already defined by upsets and breakthroughs.
For Sabalenka, the challenge now is to regroup. For Shnaider, the opportunity is enormous and after this comeback, she arrives in the last four with momentum, belief, and nothing to lose.
Featured image courtesy of Matthew Stockman / Getty Images
By Faz Ali
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