Historic Semifinals at Roland Garros
PARIS, ROLAND GARROS — In a remarkable turn of events at the French Open, 22-year-old Loïs Boisson, ranked No. 361 in the world, has made history by advancing to the semifinals in her very first Grand Slam appearance. This achievement marks the first time in 35 years that a woman has reached this stage at her debut major tournament.
A Remarkable Victory
On Wednesday, Boisson achieved an extraordinary feat by overcoming the sixth seed, Mirra Andreeva, in straight sets, winning 7-6(6), 6-3. Her victory not only highlights her resilience but also writes her name in the record books as the first Frenchwoman to reach the semifinals at Roland Garros since Marion Bartoli in 2011.
From Injury to Triumph
Reflecting on her incredible journey, it is noteworthy that just a year ago, Boisson was sidelined by an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in her left knee, which required nine months of rehabilitation. Originally slated to compete in the French Open 2022, she sustained the injury a week prior during a less significant tournament in Paris and didn’t watch the event on television.
The Match Highlights
Despite her novice status at the Grand Slam level, Andreeva, who is four years younger and more seasoned, found herself struggling under the pressure of the match. After receiving a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct in the second set, Andreeva’s frustration became apparent, and the atmosphere inside the Philippe Chatrier Court became intense, particularly in favor of the homegrown talent, Boisson.
Boosted by her recent triumph over world No. 3 Jessica Pegula just two days prior, expectations were high for Boisson, who began the match matching Andreeva’s skill. The Russian’s powerful backhand initially posed a challenge until Boisson turned the tide. After saving a crucial set point while down 5-3, she became more aggressive with her powerful forehand, realizing her potential in the match.
Captivating the Crowd
Boisson’s combative spirit shone through as she secured crucial points — hitting inside-in forehand winners at pivotal moments, eventually leveling the score at 5-5. She saved yet another set point with a remarkable lob that grazed the line, and shortly thereafter, she took the first set in a tiebreak after forcing a critical error from Andreeva.
As the stadium filled up with spectators, the tension heightened. Andreeva initially broke Boisson’s serve in the second set, but following a series of errors, her composure began to wane. Moments of frustration led Andreeva to ask for support from her team while unleashing a ball into the stands, igniting a chorus of boos from the crowd supporting Boisson.
With newfound momentum, Boisson capitalized on Andreeva’s breakdown, winning multiple games in succession, and with a powerful final shot, she sealed a sensational victory. As she fell to the court in celebration, Boisson’s run at the French Open has captivated fans and is being hailed as one of the sport’s most remarkable narratives in recent history.
