Maja Chwalinska, qualifier, reaches Roland Garros 2026 final against favorite Mirra Andreeva

Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska became the first player to reach a Roland Garros final after advancing through the qualifying rounds, setting up a showdown with 19‑year‑old Russian Mirra Andreeva. Andreeva, who has risen quickly in the rankings and is seen as the tournament favorite, will be aiming for her first Grand Slam title.

The 2026 French Open featured a dramatic first week with numerous upsets, including the early exit of top men’s and women’s players and surprising performances by newcomers. While the excitement waned in the second week, the final between Chwalinska and Andreeva stands out as the tournament's most compelling story, offering Chwalinska a chance to climb at least to world No. 21 and solidify her breakthrough.

Both players bring contrasting narratives: Chwalinska’s underdog journey from financial hardship and a pre‑qualifying ranking outside the top 100, and Andreeva’s pressure‑laden status as a rising star expected to claim the major.