Defending champion Iga Swiatek came from the brink to defeat Naomi Osaka in a French Open second-round thriller, avoiding her earliest exit at Roland Garros. With fans starved of action due to persistent rainfall, the two four-time Grand Slam champions served up a memorable battle on court Philippe Chatrier. Swiatek saved a set point, forced a tiebreak, and eventually clinched victory with a 7-6(1) 1-6 7-5 scoreline.
Osaka, back at the French Open for the first time since 2022 after a maternity break, showcased stunning tennis in the second set but succumbed to pressure in the decider, allowing Swiatek to extend her winning streak to 14 matches after claiming titles in Madrid and Rome.
Following the intense match, Swiatek addressed the crowd's behavior, urging them to support players between rallies but not during them. She emphasized the challenges of staying focused amidst loud cheering and expressed the importance of a respectful atmosphere.
American sensation Coco Gauff secured a 6-3 6-4 victory over Slovenian Tamara Zidansek, setting up a compelling encounter in the next round. Additionally, Tunisia's Ons Jabeur overcame humid conditions to advance, and Spain's Carlos Alcaraz navigated through a roller-coaster match to reach the third round.
