Maja Chwalińska becomes first qualifier to reach Roland Garros final, sparks nationwide fan frenzy
Polish tennis player Maja Chwalińska, a 24‑year‑old qualifier, advanced to the French Open (Roland Garros) final, the first ever qualifier to do so in the tournament’s history. She was defeated by Mirra Andreeva, but her run generated massive public interest in Poland, with packed cinema screenings of the match and crowds greeting her at Chopin Airport. In a TV interview she joked about actor Brad Pitt reportedly being in the stands, saying she was relieved she didn’t see him. Chwalińska disclosed plans to invest part of her €1.4 million prize into hiring additional coaches and a physiotherapist, while noting that half of the earnings will go to French taxes. The achievement puts her in contention for a possible wild‑card entry to Wimbledon and marks a historic moment for Polish tennis. She also reflected on her previous battle with depression and the mental pressure of sudden fame.