No former champions left at Roland Garros: Who will seize a historic opportunity?

The 2026 French Open has entered uncharted territory after the exits of the tournament's most decorated names, leaving Roland Garros guaranteed to crown new champions in both the men's and women's singles events.

The latest shock arrived when Ukrainian star Marta Kostyuk ended the challenge of four-time champion Iga Swiatek, ensuring there are no former women's champions left in the draw.

On the men's side, the departures of Jannik Sinner and record 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic have completely transformed the tournament landscape.

For the first time in several years, Roland Garros has become a genuine battle between emerging stars, established contenders seeking a breakthrough, and players sensing a once-in-a-career opportunity.

Women's Draw: Sabalenka leads the chase

World number one Aryna Sabalenka now appears to be the standout favourite to lift her maiden French Open crown.

Despite entering Paris as one of the leading contenders, Sabalenka was expected to face strong resistance from Swiatek, whose dominance on clay earned her the nickname "Queen of Clay." With the Polish star out, the path has become considerably clearer.

However, challenges remain.

Former world number one Naomi Osaka has shown significant improvement on clay this season, while Australian Open champion Madison Keys remains a dangerous opponent capable of upsetting anyone on her day.

Meanwhile, the tournament continues to showcase rising talent.

Ukrainian showdown awaits

One of the most intriguing quarter-final matchups will see Kostyuk face compatriot Elina Svitolina. Kostyuk arrives with tremendous momentum after winning titles in Madrid and Rouen and extending her unbeaten clay-court run to 16 matches.

Elsewhere, teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva faces veteran Romanian Sorana Cirstea in another fascinating quarter-final.

Whoever emerges from that section of the draw will become a first-time Grand Slam finalist, underlining just how open the women's tournament has become.

Men's Draw: A first-time Grand Slam champion guaranteed

The men's competition has arguably experienced an even bigger shake-up. With defending champion Carlos Alcaraz absent through injury and both Sinner and Djokovic eliminated, the tournament will produce a first-time Grand Slam champion.

The spotlight now turns to Germany's Alexander Zverev.

A three-time Grand Slam finalist, Zverev has spent years being tipped to capture a major title. At 29, this may represent his clearest opportunity yet. Yet several ambitious challengers stand in his way.

Fonseca continues dream run

Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca has become the story of the tournament.

The 19-year-old stunned Djokovic in an epic five-set battle before following it up with another impressive victory over two-time French Open finalist Casper Ruud.

Fonseca's aggressive shot-making, fearless mentality and growing confidence have made him one of the most exciting players left in the draw.

His next challenge comes against Czech star Jakub Mensik, who earned his first Grand Slam quarter-final appearance after defeating Andrey Rublev in five sets. The winner will move within one victory of a place in the French Open final.

New Generation Emerging

This year's tournament may ultimately be remembered as the moment tennis officially entered a new era. Fonseca, Mensik, Andreeva and several other young stars have demonstrated they are ready to challenge the sport's established hierarchy.

The presence of multiple teenagers deep into the second week reflects a changing landscape as the next generation continues its rise.

Why Roland Garros has been so unpredictable

Several factors have contributed to one of the most open French Opens in recent memory:

• Injuries to major contenders, including Alcaraz.
• Early exits for favourites such as Sinner and Djokovic.
• The continued transition from tennis' previous dominant generation.
• Extremely hot conditions in Paris, which have altered clay-court dynamics and increased physical demands.
• The psychological pressure of a wide-open draw, with players recognising a rare opportunity to claim a maiden major title.

As the tournament enters its decisive week, the biggest challenge may not be physical or tactical but mental. For many players still standing, the dream of becoming a Grand Slam champion has never felt closer.

And in Paris, history is waiting to be written.

SportsLigue