SHNAIDER REVEALS HOW SABALENKA’S 2025 FINAL HELPED INSPIRE FRENCH OPEN SHOCK.

Diana Shnaider revealed she drew inspiration from Aryna Sabalenka’s struggles in
last year’s French Open final as she produced a stunning comeback to knock out the
world number one in Paris.

The Russian battled back from a set and a double-break down to defeat Sabalenka
3-6, 7-5, 6-0, and reach the semi-finals.

Shnaider said she remembered how Sabalenka found it difficult to cope with the
windy conditions during her 2025 final defeat to Coco Gauff, and used that
knowledge to her advantage.

“I had that thought in the back of my mind,” Shnaider said. “I knew I had to adjust
and use the opportunity.”

After a difficult start, the Russian changed her approach by attacking Sabalenka’s
second serve and playing more aggressively, helping her wrestle momentum away
from the four-time Grand Slam champion.

Shnaider also admitted she was surprised that tournament officials opened the roof on
Court Philippe Chatrier, before the match, describing the conditions as unpredictable
and challenging.

Despite the difficulties, the 21-year-old kept her composure and found solutions
where Sabalenka could not, completing one of the biggest upsets of this year’s
tournament.