French Open 2026: Kostyuk defeats Svitolina, dedicates win to Ukraine
Marta Kostyuk delivered one of the most significant victories of her career on Tuesday, defeating compatriot Elina Svitolina to become the first Ukrainian woman in the Open Era to reach the semi-finals of the French Open.
The 23-year-old overcame the experienced seventh seed 6-3, 2-6, 6-2 in a dramatic quarter-final on Court Philippe-Chatrier, creating a landmark moment for Ukrainian tennis in the process.
The match carried added significance beyond sport. It was the first all-Ukrainian women's quarter-final in Grand Slam history and came less than 24 hours after another wave of missile and drone attacks struck Ukraine, resulting in multiple casualties across the country.
Following the victory, an emotional Kostyuk fought back tears as she dedicated the achievement to those affected by the ongoing conflict.
"We had another difficult night in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv where so many people died, so I want to give this match to Ukraine," Kostyuk said during her on-court interview.
The crowd responded with a lengthy standing ovation, while former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, conducting the interview, embraced the visibly emotional Ukrainian star.
Historic milestone for Ukrainian tennis
Kostyuk's victory marks a new chapter in Ukrainian tennis history. While male player Andrei Medvedev reached the Roland Garros final in 1999, no Ukrainian woman had previously advanced to the semi-finals in Paris during the Open Era.
The achievement also places Kostyuk alongside Elina Svitolina and Dayana Yastremska as only the third Ukrainian woman to reach a Grand Slam singles semi-final.
Her run in Paris continues a remarkable clay-court season. Kostyuk arrived at Roland Garros in excellent form after capturing titles in Rouen and Madrid and has now extended her winning streak on clay to 17 matches.
Respect for Svitolina
Despite the high stakes, Kostyuk was quick to praise Svitolina, who has long been regarded as the leading figure in Ukrainian women's tennis. Before the tournament, Kostyuk described Svitolina as a legend of Ukrainian tennis, and she reiterated that respect after the match.
"I want to point out Elina's incredible impact on tennis, Ukrainians and me. She is incredible."
Svitolina, a four-time Grand Slam semi-finalist, also reflected on the broader significance of having Ukrainian players competing at the highest level during difficult times.
The former world No. 3 noted that such achievements provide inspiration for younger generations back home while offering moments of pride amid ongoing uncertainty.
Semi-final showdown awaits
Kostyuk's reward is a highly anticipated semi-final clash against Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva.
The matchup carries additional intrigue given the political backdrop surrounding the tournament. Kostyuk has consistently spoken out about the war in Ukraine and, like other Ukrainian players, has maintained her policy of not shaking hands with Russian and Belarusian opponents.
Andreeva, meanwhile, kept her focus strictly on tennis when asked about facing a Ukrainian opponent.
With momentum on her side and a place in the final at stake, Kostyuk now stands just two victories away from completing one of the most memorable Grand Slam runs in Ukrainian sporting history.
The Ukrainian star remains determined but grounded as she pursues the biggest title of her career.
"I still think it is very far. I have two matches to play and hopefully you will come and support me."
A place in the French Open final now awaits the winner of what promises to be one of the tournament's most compelling semi-final encounters.
SportsLigue
