Maja Chwalińska reaches Roland Garros final, finishes runner‑up

Polish teenager Maja Chwalińska, entering the 2026 French Open as the world No. 114 and a qualifier, advanced through three qualifying rounds and six main‑draw matches to become the tournament’s first qualifier ever to reach the final. In the championship match she was beaten by Russia’s Mirra Andreeva 3‑6, 2‑6. The run lifted Chwalińska’s WTA ranking from 114 to No. 21 – a jump of 93 places – and brought her widespread media attention and a warm welcome from Polish fans at Warsaw’s Chopin Airport.

Chwalińska said she had felt stress before the final and was “a bit tired” after three weeks of play, adding, “maybe now the pleasure of eating will return.” Former Serena Williams coach Patrick Mouratoglou suggested she might have won had she not changed tactics during the match. The final also sparked commentary beyond sport, with Russian media criticism of the participation of Russian athletes and public praise from former tennis legends.

Following the loss, Chwalińska announced she will take a short break before deciding whether to attempt qualification for Wimbledon or seek a wild‑card entry. She expressed optimism about her future, noting the experience will help her improve and compete consistently at the highest level.