Swiatek Rallies to Victory as Alcaraz Marches on at French Open
Four-time champion Iga Swiatek staged a remarkable comeback to defeat her claycourt nemesis Elena Rybakina, while reigning men’s title holder Carlos Alcaraz powered through a tough match against Ben Shelton at the French Open on Sunday.
In a thrilling fourth-round match on Court Philippe Chatrier, Swiatek found herself in deep trouble, trailing 6-1, 2-0. The fifth seed appeared out of sorts and on the verge of elimination. However, displaying her champion’s resolve, Swiatek clawed her way back to secure a 1-6, 6-3, 7-5 victory, much to the delight of the crowd.
“This match was a real test of patience,” Swiatek reflected. “In the first set, with her playing like that, I felt I did not have a single chance. But I stayed focused and took every opportunity that came my way.”
Carlos Alcaraz, the defending champion, also faced challenges in his match against American Ben Shelton. After a hard-fought battle, Alcaraz triumphed 7-6(8), 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, marking his 100th tour-level win on clay. The victory secured his place in the quarter-finals for the fourth consecutive year.
“I just tried to calm myself,” Alcaraz said, acknowledging the mental battles he faced during the match. “I was angry with myself at times, but I’m happy I didn’t let those thoughts affect my game.”
Swiatek’s next challenge will come from Elina Svitolina, who defeated Jasmine Paolini after saving three match points. This match will be a crucial test for Swiatek as she aims to become the first female player to win four consecutive titles at Roland Garros since the professional era began.
In the men’s draw, Alcaraz will face world number 12 Tommy Paul, who made headlines by becoming the first American man to reach the French Open quarter-finals in 22 years after defeating Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 6-3, 6-3.
The day also saw Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen battle past Liudmila Samsonova 7-6(5), 1-6, 6-3, setting up a potential clash with world number one Aryna Sabalenka, who survived a match against Amanda Anisimova after squandering seven match points.
Lorenzo Musetti continued his strong performance on clay, defeating Holger Rune 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 6-2, and will next face Frances Tiafoe, who secured his spot in the quarter-finals with a victory over Daniel Altmaier.
