Maja Chwalinska Shocks Roland Garros with Historic Quarter-Final Run
Poland's Maja Chwalinska is capturing attention at the French Open as she becomes the first qualifier to reach the quarter-finals in six years, following her impressive victory over French player Diane Parry with a score of 6-3, 6-2. At just 24 years old, Chwalinska's journey to this stage is remarkable. Having come through three qualifying rounds to make her main-draw debut at Roland Garros, she displayed her skill and determination on Court Philippe Chatrier, shaking her head in disbelief post-match. Prior to this tournament, Chwalinska, ranked 114th in the world, had only secured two tour-level main-draw wins on clay and just one victory in her previous two Grand Slam appearances. Yet, she has triumphed in all seven matches at Roland Garros, winning six in straight sets, and she is projected to break into the top 50. "I didn't expect it for sure. I'm just very grateful to be here," Chwalinska expressed to the crowd, highlighting her unexpected rise. Her journey has not been without challenges; she took a break from tennis in 2021 due to a struggle with depression, unsure if she would return. Now, she stands on the brink of making history, potentially becoming only the second qualifier in the Open era to reach the semi-finals at Roland Garros, following Nadia Podoroska in 2020. To advance further, Chwalinska must face Anna Kalinskaya, the 22nd seed from Russia. "She is one of the top players in the world. Nobody knows me, to be honest. So definitely, a very challenging one again - like every match here. I need to play my best tennis to win," Chwalinska stated, acknowledging the challenge ahead.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-01