Qualifier Maja Chwalinska delivered a stunning performance at the 2026 French Open, defeating Anna Kalinskaya to secure her place in the semi-finals, marking her first Grand Slam semi-final appearance. The world number 114 achieved a remarkable 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 victory over the 22nd seed on a blustery day in Paris.

Chwalinska's journey is historic as she becomes only the second qualifier, after Nadia Podoroska in 2020, to reach the singles semi-finals at Roland Garros. Additionally, she is the sixth qualifier in the Open era to achieve this feat at a Grand Slam, with only one—Emma Raducanu at the 2021 US Open—going on to win the title.

Looking ahead, Chwalinska may face world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals, provided Sabalenka overcomes Diana Shnaider later on Wednesday.

Chwalinska expressed her disbelief, stating, "I honestly don't know what is going on. Every match here is kind of crazy for me."

This remarkable run follows a challenging period for Chwalinska, who entered the tournament with just two victories in WTA Tour-level main-draw matches. Her only previous Grand Slam win came at Wimbledon in 2022. Now, she finds herself on an impressive eight-match winning streak on the Parisian clay, having dropped only one set.

Chwalinska's resurgence comes after a two-year struggle with depression and an indefinite break from tennis. With the support of her community and inspiration from fellow athletes like Naomi Osaka, she gradually returned to the sport she once feared she might leave for good. This journey has culminated in her reaching a major semi-final, setting the stage for a potential David-versus-Goliath showdown against Sabalenka.