Iga Swiatek, a dominant figure in women’s tennis, is poised to make history at Roland-Garros, where she aims to become the first woman in over a century to clinch four consecutive titles. However, following a recent dip in form, she enters the tournament seeded outside the top four for the first time in three years, having recently suffered a third-round exit at the Italian Open.
Despite this slump and the absence of titles since her last French win, Swiatek has secured four of the last five Roland-Garros championships and remains a potent threat, having previously won multiple Grand Slam titles. Sam Stosur, a former finalist at the event, acknowledges the opportunity for other players to seize the moment, given Swiatek’s current struggles.
Several contenders are emerging, each with their strengths:
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Aryna Sabalenka: Currently ranked world No. 1, Sabalenka has reached six finals this year, securing three titles. With an impressive clay season and a formidable game, she is considered a serious threat as she aims for her first win in Paris.
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Coco Gauff: Following Swiatek’s drop in ranking, Gauff assumes the No. 2 seed position with a favourable draw. Having won the 2023 US Open against Sabalenka, Gauff feels confident heading into this year’s tournament, having also shown impressive form recently.
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Jasmine Paolini: Celebrated for her recent victory in Rome, Paolini has established herself as a rising star on clay and aims to build on her past performances at Grand Slams after reaching the finals at both Roland-Garros and Wimbledon last year.
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Mirra Andreeva: The 18-year-old sensation has climbed to No. 6 in the rankings and boasts WTA 1000 titles from this season. Having reached the semi-finals of Roland-Garros last year, she faces increased expectations, which could add pressure as she navigates her tournament.
- Zheng Qinwen: Stosur also highlights Qinwen as a potential dark horse, citing her successful track record at the Olympics and a commendable season thus far, with solid performances on clay.
With the draw set, both Swiatek’s past glories and current challenges are pivotal themes, while the emerging talents are poised to make their mark on this prestigious tournament. As the French Open unfolds, the question remains—can Swiatek reclaim her title, or will a new champion emerge?