In a stunning upset at Roland-Garros 2025, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka dethroned three-time defending champion Iga Swiatek in the women’s singles semifinals on June 5, securing her first-ever final appearance at the clay-court Grand Slam.
The electrifying match concluded with a score of 7-4, 6-1, 6-0, showcasing Sabalenka’s relentless power and precision, particularly in the final set where she delivered a rare 6-0 “bagel” – a feat that left the Stade Roland Garros crowd in awe.
Sabalenka, who had never reached a Roland-Garros final prior to this, overcame a historical challenge on clay, a surface where she struggled early in her career. Her victory marked a significant milestone, ending Swiatek’s 26-match winning streak at the tournament and halting her quest for a fourth consecutive title. The head-to-head record, previously favouring Swiatek at 8-4, now reflects the growing intensity of this rivalry, with Sabalenka proving her mettle on one of tennis’s biggest stages.
The match’s turning point came in the third set, where Sabalenka’s aggressive play left Swiatek unable to respond, culminating in the bagel set – a rare occurrence in professional tennis that underscores the Belarusian’s dominance. Fans on X erupted with reactions, some hailing Sabalenka as the “true champion,” while others noted Swiatek’s recent struggles, including a semifinal loss in Doha earlier this year.
Sabalenka’s journey to the final is a testament to her resilience and growth, especially after being favoured over Swiatek following the latter’s inconsistent form in Rome. As she prepares for the final, Sabalenka expressed her excitement for the challenge, stating, “I love tough matches where you improve and get stronger.”
This victory not only cements her status as a clay-court contender but also sets the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 French Open.
