PARIS — In a stunning semifinal clash at Roland Garros, world number one Aryna Sabalenka dethroned four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek in a thrilling three-set battle, setting up a final showdown against second seed Coco Gauff. The 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 victory marks Sabalenka’s first win over Swiatek on clay and propels her into her maiden French Open final.
Sabalenka’s Triumph Over the Queen of Clay
Sabalenka, known for her explosive power and aggressive baseline game, executed a near-perfect strategy to dismantle Swiatek’s dominance on Philippe-Chatrier Court. The Belarusian struck 45 winners, including 18 aces, while weathering Swiatek’s trademark defensive brilliance. "I knew I had to take risks and go for my shots," Sabalenka said post-match. "Iga is incredible on this surface, but today I trusted my game."
Swiatek, who had won 20 consecutive matches at Roland Garros, struggled to contain Sabalenka’s relentless offense. Despite rallying to force a decider, the Pole faltered in the third set, committing 31 unforced errors. "Aryna was just too good today," Swiatek admitted. "She played with courage and deserved the win."
Key Moments That Decided the Match
The semifinal was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, with Sabalenka’s serve proving decisive:
- First Set: Sabalenka broke Swiatek in the opening game, setting the tone with her aggressive returns.
- Second Set: Swiatek responded with a masterclass in consistency, winning 12 of 14 baseline rallies over 9+ shots.
- Third Set: Sabalenka’s clutch serving saved three break points at 4-4 before sealing the match with a crosscourt winner.
By the Numbers
Sabalenka’s victory was built on statistical dominance:
- 72% first-serve points won (vs. Swiatek’s 58%)
- 18 aces (a career-high on clay)
- 45 winners to Swiatek’s 22
Gauff Awaits in a Blockbuster Final
Sabalenka’s next challenge is 20-year-old Coco Gauff, who cruised past Italy’s Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 6-1 in the other semifinal. Gauff, the 2022 runner-up, is yet to drop a set this tournament. "Coco’s speed and defense are next-level," Sabalenka noted. "I’ll need to bring even more intensity."
Gauff leads their head-to-head 4-2, including a win in their only clay meeting (2023 Rome). However, Sabalenka won their most recent encounter at the 2024 Australian Open. "Aryna’s playing the best tennis of her life," Gauff said. "But I’ve grown since our last match."
What’s at Stake
Saturday’s final carries historic implications:
- For Sabalenka: A chance to complete the "Sunshine Double" of Australian Open and French Open titles in a single year.
- For Gauff: Opportunity to become the youngest American woman to win Roland Garros since Monica Seles in 1992.
- For the WTA: The winner will hold two of the four Grand Slam titles (Gauff is the reigning US Open champion).
Conclusion: A Clash of Styles
The final promises a fascinating contrast: Sabalenka’s raw power against Gauff’s athletic counterpunching. With both players in peak form, the match could hinge on Sabalenka’s ability to dictate play and Gauff’s skill in extending rallies. As Sabalenka put it: "This is why we play tennis—for moments like these."