Sabalenka Battles Into French Open Third Round

By Eppe Franklyne

World number one Aryna Sabalenka survived a difficult challenge from France’s Elsa Jacquemot on Thursday to secure a 7-5, 6-2 victory and book her place in the third round of the French Open.

The Belarusian star, who finished runner-up in Paris last year, faced strong resistance from the home favourite during a tense opening set. Jacquemot thrilled the local crowd with several brilliant winners and matched Sabalenka’s power for long periods of the contest.

“A very tough opponent. Tricky match,” Aryna Sabalenka said after the win. “She played really incredible tennis and forced me to step in and play on another level.”

The top seed started strongly and moved 3-1 ahead after earning an early break with a powerful forehand. However, Jacquemot quickly responded and kept the pressure on Sabalenka throughout the first set.

With men’s world number one Jannik Sinner crashing out earlier in the day, Sabalenka needed to remain focused to avoid another major upset at Roland Garros. The French player even saved a set point while energising the home supporters with fearless shot-making.

Despite the pressure, Aryna Sabalenka stayed composed and finally claimed the first set on her third set point. From that moment, she took complete control of the match.

The Belarusian broke early in the second set and won five consecutive games as Jacquemot began to fade physically. Sabalenka closed out the contest comfortably to continue her pursuit of a first French Open title.

She will now face Australia’s Daria Kasatkina in the next round, with Sabalenka expecting another demanding battle on clay.

Can Aryna Sabalenka finally win her first French Open title this year?