On June 4, 2025, the women’s semifinals of the French Open at Roland-Garros Stadium in Paris delivered high-stakes tennis, showcasing both established stars and a remarkable underdog. Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka faced off against five-time champion Iga Świątek in a gripping three-set battle, while No. 2 seed Coco Gauff took on French wildcard Lois Boisson, the lowest-ranked semifinalist in 40 years. These matches, played on the iconic clay courts, determined the finalists for the 2025 tournament, blending moments of dominance with unexpected heroics. Fans witnessed intense rallies, record-breaking performances, and the rise of a new French talent, setting the stage for an unforgettable final.
The day began with Sabalenka and Świątek, two of the sport’s biggest names, locked in a contest that lived up to its billing. Sabalenka, undefeated in sets until this match, aimed for her first Roland-Garros final, while Świątek sought to extend her 26-match win streak at the tournament. Meanwhile, Boisson’s improbable run captivated the home crowd, as the 22-year-old wildcard defied her No. 361 ranking to make history. Gauff, a former US Open champion, faced the challenge of staying focused against an inspired opponent.
- Key moments from the semifinals:
- Sabalenka and Świątek traded blows in a match decided by fine margins.
- Gauff showcased her consistency against a fearless Boisson.
- Boisson’s historic run electrified the French crowd.
The matches unfolded under perfect conditions, with the clay courts of Roland-Garros providing a fitting backdrop for these dramatic showdowns. Below, a detailed look at the performances and defining moments of the day.
Sabalenka’s breakthrough victory
The first semifinal pitted Aryna Sabalenka against Iga Świątek in a clash of titans. Sabalenka, the world’s No. 1, entered the match with confidence, having not dropped a set in the tournament. Her powerful groundstrokes and precise serves were on display early, as she surged to a 4-1 lead in the first set. Świątek, a clay-court maestro with four French Open titles, responded with characteristic resilience, clawing back to force a tiebreak. Sabalenka’s composure under pressure shone through, as she clinched the first set 7-6 after a tense battle.
The second set saw Świątek elevate her game. Reducing her unforced errors and capitalizing on Sabalenka’s occasional lapses, she secured a 6-4 victory, leveling the match. The crowd roared as the momentum swung toward the Polish star. However, Sabalenka regrouped in the decisive third set, breaking Świątek’s serve early and maintaining her lead. With a 6-3 scoreline, Sabalenka sealed her place in her first French Open final, a milestone in her illustrious career.
The match statistics underscored the intensity. Sabalenka recorded 38 winners to Świątek’s 29 but also committed 25 unforced errors compared to Świątek’s 18. The encounter lasted over two and a half hours, a testament to the physical and mental demands of the matchup.
Boisson’s historic run
In the second semifinal, Coco Gauff faced Lois Boisson, a French wildcard who became the story of the tournament. Gauff, at 21, is already a Grand Slam champion, having won the 2023 US Open and amassing 25 Roland-Garros wins, a feat unmatched by players her age since Martina Hingis in 2000. Her path to the semifinals included a tough quarterfinal against Madison Keys, where she dropped a set but rallied to win.
Boisson, ranked No. 361, was the unlikeliest of semifinalists. Entering her first Grand Slam, she stunned higher-ranked opponents, including Veronika Kudermetova, to become the first woman to reach the semifinals in her major debut since Jennifer Capriati in 1990. Her journey, fueled by fearless play and local support, made her a fan favorite.
- Boisson’s standout achievements:
- Lowest-ranked Grand Slam semifinalist in four decades.
- Defeated top-20 players en route to the semifinals.
- Inspired by the passionate Roland-Garros crowd.
Gauff, favored heavily at -475 odds, dominated the match, winning 6-3, 6-2 in just over an hour. Boisson showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in her defensive play, but Gauff’s speed and consistency proved too much. The victory marked Gauff’s second Grand Slam final appearance, setting her up for a shot at the French Open title.
Stars of the tournament
Sabalenka and Gauff reached the semifinals through contrasting paths. Sabalenka, fresh off titles at the 2024 US Open and Australian Open, showcased her versatility on clay, a surface where she has historically faced challenges. Her serve, one of the most potent in the game, averaged 6 aces per match, and her aggressive style overwhelmed opponents throughout the tournament.
Gauff, known for her defensive prowess and tactical acumen, excelled in extended rallies. Her ability to win points on second-serve returns was unmatched, with an 80% success rate in service games against Boisson. Despite losing a set in the quarterfinals, Gauff’s mental toughness carried her to the final.
Świątek, though defeated, remained a formidable force. Her loss ended a remarkable streak of 26 consecutive wins at Roland-Garros, but her performance against Sabalenka highlighted her enduring skill. At 24, with five Grand Slam titles, she continues to set the standard on clay.
The Boisson phenomenon
Lois Boisson’s meteoric rise defined the 2025 French Open. The 22-year-old, who trains under Patrick Mouratoglou, approached the tournament with no expectations, focusing on each match individually. Her victories over seeded players in earlier rounds sent shockwaves through the tennis world, and her semifinal appearance guaranteed a significant ranking boost.
Boisson’s game, built on quick footwork and clever shot-making, troubled even seasoned opponents. While she couldn’t overcome Gauff, her performance earned her widespread admiration and a platform to build her career. The French crowd, chanting her name, celebrated her as a symbol of hope for the nation’s tennis future.
Key statistics
The semifinals produced numbers that reflected the quality of play. Sabalenka led the tournament in aces, while Gauff topped the field in second-serve return points. Boisson, despite her loss, converted over 50% of her break point opportunities in earlier matches, a remarkable stat for a debutant.
- Notable stats from the semifinals:
- Sabalenka: 38 winners, 65% first-serve points won against Świątek.
- Gauff: 80% service game win rate against Boisson.
- Boisson: 12 winners, 8 unforced errors in the semifinal.
- Świątek: 29 winners, 18 unforced errors against Sabalenka.
These figures highlight the balance of power and precision that defined the matches.
Roland-Garros atmosphere
The Philippe-Chatrier court, with its rich history, amplified the drama of the semifinals. Known for rewarding players with strong movement and patience, the clay surface suited Świątek and Gauff, while Sabalenka adapted impressively. Boisson thrived on the energy of the home crowd, which created an electric atmosphere.
The 2025 tournament benefited from ideal weather, with mild temperatures enhancing player performance. The event’s global broadcast reached millions, cementing Roland-Garros as a pinnacle of professional sports.
Final showdown looms
With Sabalenka and Gauff advancing, the French Open final on June 6 promises a clash of styles. Sabalenka’s power will face Gauff’s speed and versatility, in a matchup that could shape the future of women’s tennis. The two have met seven times, with Gauff holding a 4-3 edge, but Sabalenka’s recent form makes her a slight favorite.
The final will test both players’ endurance and strategy. Sabalenka must maintain her aggression without over-hitting, while Gauff will rely on her defensive skills to counter her opponent’s firepower. Fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to an already memorable tournament.
Lasting impact
The 2025 French Open semifinals highlighted the depth of talent in women’s tennis. Sabalenka, Gauff, and Świątek, all under 27, represent the sport’s bright future, while Boisson’s emergence added an inspiring narrative. The tournament’s global appeal, with packed stands and massive viewership, underscored its status as a premier sporting event.
