The French Open witnessed a major upset on Wednesday as world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka crashed out in dramatic fashion against Diana Shnaider. Despite being in complete control for much of the match, Sabalenka squandered a set lead and a double-break advantage before losing 3-6, 7-5, 6-0.
Sabalenka's Collapse
The four-time Grand Slam champion looked set for a place in the semifinals when she led 4-1 in the second set and later served for the match at 5-4. However, Shnaider, playing in her first Grand Slam quarterfinal, mounted a stunning comeback and completely dominated the deciding set.
As the match slipped away, Sabalenka's frustration became evident. In the third set, she screamed loudly after losing a point that left her trailing 0-30 in a game. Although she managed to save two match points, the Belarusian eventually bowed out after hitting a shot into the net.
The defeat was reminiscent of last year's French Open final, where Sabalenka also struggled under pressure before losing to Coco Gauff.
Shnaider's Historic Win
For Shnaider, the victory marks the biggest win of her career and secures a memorable spot in the semifinals at Roland Garros. The young Russian qualifier showed remarkable composure to overcome the world No. 1.
Chwalinska's Dream Run
Earlier in the day, unseeded Polish player Maja Chwalinska continued her dream run by defeating 22nd seed Anna Kalinskaya 7-6 (3), 6-3 to reach the semifinals. Chwalinska, who came through three qualifying rounds just to enter the main draw, became only the second Polish woman after Iga Swiatek to reach the French Open semifinals.
The 24-year-old struggled to believe her achievement after the win.
"I honestly don't know what's going on. Every single match here is kind of crazy for me," she said. "I was definitely nervous. I'm stressed of course but I try and focus on my job, on my game."
Chwalinska, who had never gone beyond the second round of a Grand Slam before this tournament, added: "I'm playing against the best players in the world. I won't compare myself to them."
Her remarkable journey now continues into the final four.
