Roland-Garros 2025: The Shattered Dream of French Tennis Player Loïs Boisson, Defeated by American Prodigy Coco Gauff
A Tough Let-Down for Lois Boisson in the 2025 French Open Semifinals
In a heartbreaking finish, the rising French star Loïs Boisson faced a crushing defeat at the hands of world No. 2 and defending champion Coco Gauff in the semifinals of the 2025 Roland-Garros on Thursday, June 5 (6-1, 6-2 in 1h09).
The young Frenchwoman, fresh off two stunning victories against the world No. 3 and No. 6, found herself overwhelmed by the challenge. Despite her exceptional performance in her first Grand Slam tournament, she failed to advance any further, becoming the fifth Frenchwoman to reach the semifinals in Paris' Open era, joining the ranks of Francoise Durr, Brigitte Simon, Marion Bartoli, and Mary Pierce.
Meanwhile, Cori Gauff returned to the Roland-Garros final after 2022, where she lost to Iga Swiatek. This time, however, she will compete for the title against a different opponent, as Swiatek's reign was ending in a different semifinal against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
Unfortunate Fate Serves No Favor
In truth, Loïs Boisson never had much of a chance against the more experienced Gauff. The young Frenchwoman was immediately strangled by the American's superior play, conceding her serve twice in the opening to fall behind 3-0 [1]. The stands, initially sparse, didn't offer much support, as Boisson struggled to gain any momentum despite her impressive performances against Jessica Pegula and Mirra Andreeva.
Suggestions claim that Boisson may have been drained from her grueling 4h48 over her previous matches, playing her quarterfinal less than 24 hours prior, and the physically demanding game strain.
Boisson did get a brief reprieve, breaking back at 3-2 in the second set, but the match was largely controlled by the younger player [3]. Gauff, who was 21 at the time of the match compared to Boisson's 22, was playing her 23rd Grand Slam [2].
Despite a more balanced exchange after losing the first set, Boisson had given away too many points (33 unforced errors, 15 for Gauff) to maintain hope [1]. Down 5-2, she hit her head in frustration under her towel, a sign of her despondence.
Loïs Boisson will likely feel like she missed her ticket to the final, curtailed on a court ready for eruptions of excitement. But the brutal defeat should first be attributed to her formidable opponent, who reminded spectators of her status as world No. 2 and the reigning Roland-Garros champion.
The American, echoing the praises of many of her competitor, acknowledged Boisson's performance: "She's an incredible player. She had an outstanding tournament, she's one of the best on clay, we'll have more battles in the future. Congratulations to her for her fantastic tournament," said the new finalist, quickly silencing any early murmurs in the stands that could distract her [1].
"I knew the whole crowd would be behind her, I was just pretending to listen, to understand that it was my name, just to really refocus. But I love you all anyway, I know you'll support me in the final!" she continued, showing maturity beyond her years.
Whether it's Aryna Sabalenka or Iga Swiatek, a new champion will be crowned at Roland-Garros this Saturday following Swiatek's defeat. But Loïs Boisson will undoubtedly have left her mark on this Paris fortnight.
Notes:
- 1 - CNN article
- 2 - ESPN article
- 3 - WTA Insider blog post
In the aftermath of her defeat, Loïs Boisson, a promising French sports star, may have felt like her passion for tennis culminated in a heartbreaking loss to the skilled Coco Gauff during the 2025 French Open Semifinals. Despite her impressive run, reaching the semifinals served as a stepping stone for Boisson rather than the final destination.
