Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Diana Shnaider produced one of the biggest upsets of Roland Garros 2026, stunning World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 3-6, 7-5, 6-0 to reach her maiden Grand Slam semi-final. The Russian appeared headed for defeat when she trailed 3-6, 3-5 in the second set, with Sabalenka just two points away from victory. However, Shnaider mounted a remarkable comeback, completely turning the match on its head.
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From the brink of elimination, she broke Sabalenka’s serve six consecutive times and stormed to an unforgettable victory. The triumph marked her first career win over a top-ranked player and only her second victory over a top-10 opponent, making the achievement even more significant.
Sabalenka had not dropped a set throughout the tournament before the semi-final, but Shnaider ended that flawless run in stunning fashion. Having already knocked out Grand Slam champion Madison Keys in the fourth round, the Russian added another major champion to her list of scalps with a career-defining performance on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
SHNAIDER BATTLES WINDY CONDITIONS
Prior to Wednesday’s quarter-final, Diana Shnaider had never faced Aryna Sabalenka on the WTA Tour. Although she did not show it on court, the Russian later admitted she was nervous about taking on the World No. 1 for the first time and initially struggled to adapt to the windy conditions. However, Shnaider stayed focused on one point at a time, reminding herself of the challenge in front of her while fighting for every ball.
“Honestly, I’m speechless. I’m super happy. Obviously, today was a little tough with the windy conditions. It was my first time playing Aryna, and I was super nervous. Playing in the quarterfinals for the first time, the first set was about adjusting to her game, the conditions, and the wind, and figuring out how to play,” Shnaider said.
I was just trying to focus point by point and not think about the score. I kept telling myself, ‘It’s okay, these are tough conditions. She’s the World No. 1.’ So I just tried to do my best until the end and see how it went.
“I fought for every point, ran for every ball, and tried to put one more shot back into the court,” Shnaider added.
More to follow…
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
