Credited from: ALJAZEERA
Diana Shnaider caused a major upset at the French Open by defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 3-6, 7-5, 6-0 in the quarter-finals. Despite facing challenging windy conditions, Shnaider battled back from a set and a double break down, securing her place in the semi-finals on Court Philippe Chatrier. This remarkable victory marked only the second time in her career that Shnaider has defeated a top-10 player, highlighting her potential on the Grand Slam stage, according to Reuters and Le Monde.
Shnaider, seeded 25th, will now face Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska in the semi-finals, who also secured her position after defeating Anna Kalinskaya. Shnaider expressed her surprise at her performance, stating, "Well, honestly, I'm speechless, I'm super happy. Obviously tough conditions with the wind," after the match while reflecting on how she adjusted to Sabalenka's game during the earlier sets, according to South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.
Aryna Sabalenka's performance marked a sharp drop from her previous encounters, as the Belarusian managed a staggering 57 unforced errors during the match. Initially leading 5-1 in the first set and 4-1 in the second, her inability to maintain momentum allowed Shnaider back into the match. This crazy downfall was reminiscent of Sabalenka's previous Grand Slam experiences, including last year's final where she let a strong position slip, according to Le Monde and South China Morning Post.
As Sabalenka departed the court, she was visibly frustrated, having won only 14 points in the final set, a stark contrast to her formidable status as a Grand Slam champion. Meanwhile, Shnaider's impressive performance and resilience have established her as a strong contender heading into the semi-finals, with her left-handed style presenting a unique challenge for Chwalinska, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.