Qualifier Chwalinska Advances to French Open Final Against Andreeva

Poland’s Maja Chwalinska Advances to French Open Final

Maja Chwalinska of Poland has become the second qualifier to reach a Grand Slam singles final in the Open Era, defeating Diana Shnaider of Russia 7-6 (4), 6-4. The 24-year-old Chwalinska will face Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva in Saturday’s final at Roland Garros.

Chwalinska has made history by becoming the first qualifier to reach a Grand Slam singles final at Roland Garros in the professional era. She advanced through three qualifying rounds to enter the main draw and play in her third Grand Slam.

Andreeva, 19, reached her first Grand Slam final by beating Marta Kostyuk 6-1, 6-3 earlier Thursday on Court Philippe-Chatrier. Chwalinska has dropped only one set in her nine matches, including qualifying, and has defeated four top-50 players in the main draw.

Chwalinska’s ranking is expected to increase significantly if she wins the tournament. According to the WTA, a win would boost her ranking from 114th to number 14. Additionally, Chwalinska will receive significant prize money, including €1.4 million for reaching the final and up to €2.8 million if she wins on Saturday.

In her post-match interview, Chwalinska expressed her emotions, saying “Like a dream, honestly, I don’t know what’s going on. I don’t know what to say, sorry.” She will now look to make history by winning the French Open title.

Source: Al Jazeera