Iga Swiatek’s 25th birthday turned bitter as Ukrainian 15th seed Marta Kostyuk defeated her 7-5, 6-1 in the French Open Round of 16.
The former champion’s pursuit of a fifth Roland Garros title ended abruptly in a straight-set shocker.
Both players traded early breaks, but Kostyuk held firm in the 11th game and sealed the first set with a stunning backhand crosscourt winner. It was her first-ever set win against Swiatek after three previous losses. Riding the momentum, Kostyuk broke early in the second set and raced to a 3-1 lead. turn0edgesection7
Kostyuk celebrated her victory by raising her arms in triumph, soaking in the moment of reaching her first Roland Garros quarterfinal. The win extended her perfect clay-court record this season to 16-0. turn0edgesection10
Her emotional post-match remarks reflected her passion for the sport. “I’m not playing tennis to win. I’m playing tennis because I love it. I want to connect to people. I want to make people happy and unite people,” she said.
