World number one Aryna Sabalenka has taken a significant step towards her first French Open title by defeating four-time champion Iga Swiatek in a thrilling semi-final clash at Roland Garros.
Sabalenka secured a hard-fought 7-6 (7-1), 4-6, 6-0 victory, ending Swiatek’s remarkable 26-match winning streak at the tournament.
According to BBC, after a tentative start, the Belarusian regained control, dominating the decisive set to book her place in the final.
“I’m thrilled with my performance, but the job is not done yet,” Sabalenka said.
“Iga is the toughest opponent, especially here at Roland Garros, so I’m proud to have won this match.”
In Saturday’s final, Sabalenka will face second seed Coco Gauff, who impressed with a commanding 6-1, 6-2 win over French wildcard Lois Boisson, who had captured hearts with her maiden Grand Slam run.
This showdown was highly anticipated, featuring two of the most dominant players in women’s tennis over recent years.
Swiatek, known as the ‘Queen of Clay’, had captured six of the past ten Grand Slam titles between them but entered the tournament as the fifth seed amid a challenging season.
Meanwhile, Sabalenka arrived as the favourite, eager to add a Roland Garros title to her three hard-court Grand Slams.
The match’s early stages were marked by nerves and intensity, with Sabalenka adjusting quickly to the indoor clay conditions due to wet weather.
Her aggressive returning put Swiatek under pressure, enabling her to gain a strong advantage early on.
Swiatek showed resilience, adapting her game and fighting back to level the match, but Sabalenka’s power and determination ultimately prevailed in the final set.
With this victory, Sabalenka moves closer to making history at the French Open, while Swiatek’s reign at Roland Garros comes to a pause—though the Pole remains a formidable force, promising to return stronger.
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