Kalinskaya Battles to French Open Quarterfinals

Anna Kalinskaya fought hard during her match against fellow Russian Anastasia Potapova, coming back from a 4-1 deficit in the tiebreak to secure a victory of 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (7) on Monday. This win means she’s headed to the quarterfinals of the French Open.

“I’m just shocked. It feels unreal to be here right now, talking to you after that match,” said Kalinskaya, who is the 22nd seed. “It was an incredible match, a real battle until the very last point.”

Kalinskaya has faced Potapova numerous times before, but noted that this match felt particularly unique. “She’s really improved, making this a tough contest,” she reflected. When the match reached the tiebreak, Potapova took an early lead. But thanks to a crucial service error from Potapova, Kalinskaya managed to clinch nine of the last twelve points. The atmosphere was electric as she fell to her knees in relief, with the crowd on Court Suzanne Lenglen erupting in applause.

This victory marks Kalinskaya’s first time advancing to the quarterfinals of the French Open, where she will meet world No. 114 Maja Chwalinska.

For now, though, she’s focusing on enjoying the moment. “Looking back, it’s quite incredible to see where I am after just two weeks,” she said with a smile. “I’m really grateful and excited to be here, and I’ll just do my best moving forward.”

The tournament has seen several surprising outcomes, with big names like Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina all being eliminated. However, top seeds Elina Svitolina and Mila Andreeva are still in the running, while No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is set to face No. 15 Naomi Osaka later today.