In the 2025 Roland-Garros, significant knockout: Aryna Sabalenka ousts three-time finalist Iga Swiatek, securing her initial appearance in the championship match in Paris.
Sabalenka dethrones Swiatek in Paris
In an electrifying upset at the Roland Garros quarterfinals, three-time defender Iga Swiatek met her match against Aryna Sabalenka. On Thursday, June 5, the Belarusian powerhouse ousted Swiatek in a thrilling three-set battle (7-6[7-1], 4-6, 6-0), stealing the limelight on a well-attended Philippe-Chatrier court.
Celebrating wildly after her first match point, Sabalenka displayed excitement and pride. With her tactical prowess and relentless aggression, she opened up the path to her first Roland Garros final.
Aggressive tactics and mental grit
Despite Swiatek's reign as the queen of Roland Garros clay since 2022, Sabalenka stepped onto the court with confidence and determination, determined to defy the odds stacked against her. The world No.1 seized the opportunity to turn the tables, thanks to a strategic approach that saw her win 54% of points on Swiatek's return serve.
In a rollercoaster ride of a match, Sabalenka constantly dictated the rhythm, exposing her opponent's weaknesses, and showcasing impressive mental fortitude to resist Swiatek's comeback after losing the second set. Although frustration crept into her game, Sabalenka's focus remained unwavering as she delivered a flawless third set, sealing the deal with a perfect game.
For her part, Swiatek exhibited signs of frustration throughout the grueling 2h19 match, eventually falling apart in the decisive third set, which Sabalenka dominated.
Unseating the queen
Swiatek, who had reigned supreme at Roland Garros for three years, suffered her third defeat in seven consecutive appearances at the tournament, marking her first loss since the 2021 quarterfinals against Maria Sakkari. A gracious Sabalenka praised her opponent, acknowledging the challenge she faced and expressing pride in her victory.
With this win over Swiatek, who had never previously defeated her, Sabalenka qualified for her sixth Grand Slam final, following herRoland Garros, U.S. Open 2024, and Australian Open at the beginning of the year. She now awaits the winner of Loïs Boisson, who defeated the French sensation in the second semifinal.
Aryna Sabalenka is a force to be reckoned with in women's tennis. Born in Minsk, Belarus, on May 5, 1998, she has rapidly ascended the tennis ladder, winning several Grand Slam titles and maintaining a remarkable record of consecutive deep Grand Slam runs. Among her significant achievements are:
- Back-to-back Australian Open titles (2023 and 2024)
- U.S. Open crown (2024)
- Grand Slam doubles championship (2021 Australian Open, partnered with Elise Mertens)
- WTA No. 1 singles ranking (achieved in September 2023)
Sabalenka's resilience and mental toughness have been tested on and off the court, as she faces personal adversities such as the loss of her father and former boyfriend. Despite the challenges, Sabalenka remains an unstoppable force in the world of tennis.
In her journey to the Roland Garros final, Aryna Sabalenka showcased her impressive French tennis skills, outplaying Iga Swiatek in a thrilling three-set battle reminiscent of a high-intensity sports match on the Philippe-Chatrier court. Her unexpected victory against the queen of Roland Garros clay, who had dominated the tournament since 2022, further solidified her reputation as a formidable force in women's tennis.
