World no. 1 Sabalenka knocked out of French Open

THOMAS SAMSON / AFP

World number one Aryna Sabalenka was knocked out of the French Open quarter-finals after a 3-6 7-5 6-0 defeat by Russian Diana Shnaider in blustery conditions on Wednesday.

Sabalenka looked to be cruising after winning the first set and going a double break up in the next, only to spectacularly collapse and crash out.

The conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier proved a big challenge for both players as they affected precise shot-making, but Sabalenka found her groove for a 5-1 advantage before she dropped serve when the wind began to really swirl.

The Belarusian let out a frustrated scream after netting a backhand to give Shnaider another breakpoint, but she composed herself again to wrap up the first set in 49 minutes and punch the air to loud applause from the crowd.

Russian 25th seed Shnaider dropped her level in the second set to fall behind again before mounting a spirited comeback to erase the double break and level at 5-5, before dragging four-times major champion Sabalenka to a decider.

Left-hander Shnaider's forehand caused all kinds of issues early in the final set for Sabalenka and the 22-year-old broke for a 2-0 lead with a crosscourt winner before holding firm to seal the win and set up a clash with Maja Chwalinska.

More from Sports

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Music Mix

    11:00pm - 6:00am

    Enjoy your favourite music back to back commercial free, tune in to the Music Mix everyday from 1 until 2 for the music you love and the news updates you need

  • The Business Breakfast

    6:00am - 10:00am

    The Business Breakfast is the day’s must listen for the UAE’s business leaders, and those who aspire to be.

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!