Maja Chwalinska Defeats Anna Kalinskaya and Reaches French Open 2026 Semi-Finals

Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska moved a step closer to an unlikely French Open 2026 title challenge after overcoming 22nd seed Anna Kalinskaya in straight sets on Wednesday to secure a place in the last four at Roland Garros.

The result means Maja Chwalinska reaches semi-finals for the first time at a Grand Slam, continuing a breakthrough campaign that has seen her emerge as one of the tournament's biggest surprises. Playing on Court Philippe-Chatrier, the 24-year-old handled key moments better than her higher-ranked opponent and maintained her composure throughout a two-set victory.

The opening set proved decisive. Chwalinska established an early advantage before Kalinskaya worked her way back into contention. With little separating the pair, the set was eventually settled in a tie-break, where the Pole raised her level and took control of the match.

Kalinskaya struggled to maintain consistency after losing the opener. Chwalinska capitalised by applying pressure from the baseline and forcing her opponent into difficult positions during extended rallies. The Russian managed to recover one break in the second set, but Chwalinska remained in front and completed a 7-6(3), 6-3 victory.

The win places Chwalinska in rare company. Her run has made her only the second qualifier in the Open era to reach the French Open semi-finals, while she also becomes just the sixth qualifier to advance to the final four of any Grand Slam tournament.

The latest result means Maja Chwalinska defeats Anna Kalinskaya and will now await the winner of the quarter-final between world number one Aryna Sabalenka and Diana Shnaider.

Despite her rapid rise through the draw, Chwalinska said she is trying to keep her attention on each match rather than looking ahead.

"Every single match here is kind of crazy for me, I'm very grateful," said Chwalinska.

"Inside I'm nervous and stressed. I try to focus on my game and I'm happy I managed that. Honestly I just try to win every match, I'm not focusing on confidence, I'm not comparing myself (with the top players)."

Chwalinska has dropped only one set during the tournament and now stands two wins away from completing one of the most unexpected runs of this year's French Open.