French Open Day 11: Weather Challenges and Quarterfinal Outcomes

Welcome to The Athletic’s French Open briefing. Each day, we explore the stories surrounding the tournament. On the second day of quarterfinals, unpredictable weather took center stage, adding drama to the event.

Impact of Wind on Quarterfinal Matches

Aryna Sabalenka and Diana Shnaider faced harsh conditions on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The wind whipped dusty clay into their faces, making it difficult to play. Shnaider, ranked 23rd, found the conditions challenging, stating the wind removed clay from the court, affecting their performance. Both players described their game as ‘dirty’ due to these blustery conditions.

Sabalenka expressed disbelief that spectators could enjoy watching in such weather. After her unexpected defeat to the 25th seed, who had rarely beaten top-ranked players, Sabalenka questioned the decision to keep the roof open.

The tournament decided to close the roof only after the men’s quarterfinal between Félix Auger-Aliassime and Flavio Cobolli started. Auger-Aliassime, from Canada, learned that the possibility of rain prompted the closure.

At Roland Garros, the policy is to keep the roof open unless extreme weather occurs. However, when rain threats emerge, the roof may be closed beforehand, as seen previously during daylight matches.

When playing with wind, players need to adjust. Wind behind can cause overhits, while headwind requires added pace. Courts create swirling winds, challenging players further.

Both Sabalenka and Kalinskaya, a fellow quarterfinalist, found serving difficult. Sabalenka admitted she didn’t request the roof to close as conditions shifted her focus.

Men’s Quarterfinals: Redemption and Struggles

Flavio Cobolli reached his first Grand Slam semifinal, defeating Auger-Aliassime. Three years ago, Cobolli faced a tough loss against Carlos Alcaraz, who then dazzled with a strong performance. Cobolli had used that defeat to motivate improvements.

In this year’s tournament, Cobolli faced a determined Auger-Aliassime, who initially took a set in windy conditions. The roof closing altered momentum. Auger-Aliassime struggled with the heavier conditions, his usual strength undermined. Cobolli secured the victory through resilience.

For Auger-Aliassime, the defeat was painful due to the progress he had made as a player. Cobolli’s win means an Italian finalist is guaranteed, as he was set to meet a fellow countryman in the semifinals.

Matteo Berrettini, previously facing serious injuries, had to retire, sending Matteo Arnaldi to the semifinals. Berrettini reflected on his path, seeing positives despite the setback.

Other Tournament Highlights

Shot of the day: Despite stumbles, Félix Auger-Aliassime showcased his skill.

• Challenges: Many top seeds have fallen, highlighting the pressure of managing nerves.
• Maja Chwalińska: The Polish player’s journey to the semifinals has been one of skill and perseverance.
• Aryna Sabalenka: Her clay and grass court mastery remains a work in progress.
• Nadal at 40: Reflect on Nadal’s career through his new docuseries as he celebrates his 40th birthday.

Upcoming Women’s Semifinals

Women’s singles: Marta Kostyuk (15) vs. Mirra Andreeva (8)
The two will face off in a rematch from the Madrid Open final. Andreeva brings more Grand Slam experience but must counter Kostyuk’s aggressive strategy.

Women’s singles: Diana Shnaider (25) vs. Maja Chwalińska (Q)
For Chwalińska, this is not only a dream run but an opportunity to showcase her talents. Shnaider will need to navigate her own momentum after defeating Sabalenka.