Roland-Garros 2026: French Players Disappoint, Marta Kostyuk Triumphs Despite Emotional Strain

Paris – 24.05.2026: The first day of the 2026 French Open at Roland-Garros began with mixed feelings for the French tennis players. Of the eleven athletes who started, only two managed to reach the second round. Among them was the 19-year-old Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, who lost a thrilling match to Serbian Novak Djokovic 5:7, 7:5, 6:1, 6:4. Despite the defeat, the young Frenchman showed an impressive performance and gained valuable experience on the big stage.

Another French player who made it to the second round was 24-year-old Titouan Droguet. He defeated Czech Jakub Mensik 6:3, 6:2, 6:4, delivering a strong performance. However, the match was accompanied by high temperatures that challenged both players and spectators.

Away from the French players, Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk attracted attention. The 23-year-old, who had already won titles in Rouen and Madrid this season, continued her winning streak by defeating Spaniard Oksana Selekhmeteva 6:2, 6:3. Despite the clear result, the day was marked by emotional challenges for Kostyuk. Just hours before the match, she learned that a rocket attack had taken place near her parents’ house in Kyiv. “I am incredibly proud of myself today. I think it was one of the toughest matches of my career,” Kostyuk said after the match. “This morning, a building 100 meters from my parents’ house was destroyed. It was a very difficult morning for me… I didn’t know how to handle it, I cried most of the morning.”

Despite this personal strain, Kostyuk found the strength to focus on the game and secure her place in the second round. She emphasized the importance of carrying on and pointed to the example of the Ukrainian people who continue to stand together despite difficult circumstances. “I think it’s important to keep going. My biggest example is the Ukrainians. I woke up this morning and saw that life in my country goes on, that Ukrainians continue to help those who need it most,” she explained.

The first day of the 2026 French Open was thus marked by mixed emotions. While the French players faced challenges, Marta Kostyuk demonstrated impressive strength and determination that went beyond the tennis court.