French Open 2025: Drama Unfolds in First Round

PARIS — The French Open kicked off on Sunday, with world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka dominating her first-round match against unseeded Anastasia Rakhimova, winning 6-1, 6-0 in just one hour. Sabalenka showcased her powerful serve, hitting five aces and avoiding break points.

The three-time Grand Slam champion expressed relief and satisfaction post-match: “I’m super happy to be back in Paris. The first rounds are always tricky, but I’m very happy to get the win and move forward.”

Meanwhile, China’s Zheng Qinwen, who won an Olympic singles gold medal last year, also advanced with a convincing 6-4, 6-3 victory over 2021 finalist Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Following her win, Qinwen reflected on her Olympic experience, stating, “That feeling is unforgettable. It is the best experience of my life so far.”

In other matches, last year’s runner-up and fourth seed, Elina Svitolina, fought hard but managed a 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 win against Barbora Krejcikova. Svitolina, who dropped serve five times, noted the challenges of the match but was relieved to advance.

Returning to the Grand Slam stage, Canadian teen Charlotte Mboko impressed in her debut, beating 2024 Wimbledon quarterfinalist Marie Bouzkova 6-1, 7-6 (4). Mboko, who boasted a speed of 115 mph on serve and recorded seven aces, commented on the rapid pace of her career: “Although it feels quick, I feel like I’m adapting very quickly. I want to make this level feel normal for me.”

In a surprising upset, two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova succumbed to Marketa Vondrousova in a three-set match, finishing 3-6, 6-0, 6-4. German player Andrea Petkovic also advanced, defeating American seed 6-0, 6-3.

As the tournament progresses, the competition remains fierce, and players will be keen to build on their early successes.