Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska continued her remarkable run at the 2026 French Open by defeating Diana Shnaider 7-6(4), 6-4 in the semi-finals on Thursday.
The victory sends Chwalinska into her first-ever Grand Slam final and makes her the first qualifier in the professional era to reach the women’s singles final at Roland Garros.
She will now face Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva in Saturday’s championship match.
Chwalinska’s Dream Run Continues
The 24-year-old has been one of the biggest surprises of the tournament.
Ranked World No. 114 entering the event, Chwalinska battled through qualifying before putting together an extraordinary run in the main draw.
Speaking after the victory, the Polish player admitted she was struggling to process the achievement.
“It feels like a dream. I don’t know what’s going on. I’m very happy,” Chwalinska said to the cheering crowd on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
She also acknowledged the physical challenge of facing top-ranked opponents throughout the tournament.
“It’s so challenging to play against the best players in the world day after day, but it’s a Grand Slam and you have to give it your all.”
Tough Battle Against Diana Shnaider
The semi-final proved to be a high-quality contest between two left-handed players.
Chwalinska started strongly and produced several impressive winners that frustrated Shnaider early in the match.
However, the Russian fought back after trailing and leveled the opening set at 4-4.
The first set eventually went to a tiebreak, where Chwalinska maintained her composure. A perfectly executed lob helped her earn a crucial set point before she sealed the tiebreak 7-4.
The second set remained closely contested. Both players exchanged powerful baseline rallies and held serve through the opening stages.
Eventually, Chwalinska secured a decisive break of serve and then held her nerve to close out the match on her first match point with a forehand winner.
Staying Calm Under Pressure
Throughout the tournament, Chwalinska has impressed with her mental strength.
Despite appearing calm on court, she admitted there is plenty of emotion beneath the surface.
“I’m crazy sometimes, but I try to stay composed. It’s the best way for me and helps me play my best tennis.”
“Inside there’s a storm, believe me.”
Her ability to remain focused during crucial moments has been a major factor behind her historic run.
Historic Achievement at Roland Garros
By reaching the final, Chwalinska has entered the record books.
She becomes the first qualifier in the professional era to reach a French Open women’s singles final.
Additionally, she is only the second qualifier in the Open Era to reach a Grand Slam final after Emma Raducanu won the 2021 US Open as a qualifier.
The achievement marks a significant milestone in Chwalinska’s career and could propel her into the top ranks of women’s tennis.
Mirra Andreeva Awaits in the Final
Earlier on Thursday, 19-year-old Mirra Andreeva secured her place in the final with a dominant 6-1, 6-3 victory over Marta Kostyuk.
Andreeva has been one of the standout performers of the tournament and enters the final as one of the most exciting young talents in the sport.
Chwalinska said she had watched part of Andreeva’s semi-final and praised her future opponent.
“Her game is incredible. It’s another great experience for me.”
New Grand Slam Champion Guaranteed
Saturday’s final will guarantee a first-time Grand Slam champion.
Both players are seeking the biggest title of their careers, adding even more excitement to the championship match.
For Chwalinska, the final represents the culmination of a remarkable journey from qualifying rounds to the biggest stage in tennis.
She made it clear that she intends to embrace the opportunity.
“I’ll give my all. It’s a Grand Slam final.”