Skip to main content
The Morning Star Shop
Svitolina saves three match points before knocking out Paolini in Paris
Ukraine's Elina Svitolina celebrates beating Italy's Jasmine Paolini during their fourth round match of the French Tennis Open, at the Roland-Garros stadium, in Paris, June 1 2025

ELINA SVITOLINA sprung a French Open surprise by knocking out fourth seed and last year’s runner-up Jasmine Paolini today.

The 30-year-old from Ukraine saved three match points before winning 6-4 6-7 (6) 6-1 to reach the quarter-finals.

“I would’ve never believed this match would swing my way,” she said. “It was a really difficult match, Jasmine was playing really, really well. It was really tough. I had to fight until the last point and I’m very happy to be in the next round.

“Of course it’s one or two points which decided the second set. I was really pleased to win the second set and played really well to close the match.

“We are at a grand slam so everyone is playing very well and everyone is fighting. It’s all about trying to stay focused and finding the opportunities.”

Svitolina’s husband, Gael Monfils, was knocked out by Jack Draper in a thrilling four-setter on Thursday night.

“It’s important to recover because today was a very difficult match,” she added.

“An ice bath, some food, speak with my brother and Gael as well, enjoy the moment with them and then practice tomorrow to prepare for my next round.”

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
More from this author
England Women head coach Charlotte Edwards (right) during a nets session at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. Picture date: Friday June 27, 2025
WOMEN'S CRICKET / 7 July 2025
7 July 2025
Cameron Norrie celebrates his victory in his Gentlemen's Singles match against Nicolas Jarry on day seven of the 2025 Wimbledon Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, July 6, 2025
Men’s tennis / 7 July 2025
7 July 2025
Former boxer and trainer of John Hedges Ricky Hatton at the Copper Box Arena, London, May 17, 2025
Men’s boxing / 7 July 2025
7 July 2025