Defending champion Coco Gauff exited the French Open in the third round after a grueling loss to Anastasia Potapova. The American fourth seed fell 4-6 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 in a match defined by shifting momentum. Potapova used a strong defensive game to neutralize Gauff, securing her first ever fourth round appearance at Roland Garros.

Gauff entered this tournament without a single title in 2026, struggling to find the form that saw her beat Aryna Sabalenka in the previous final. Her departure adds to a chaotic first week in Paris. She joins other early exits including Novak Djokovic and top seed Jannik Sinner, leaving the draw wide open.

Physical fatigue played a role in the result, as Gauff clutched her shoulder and reported cramping after several heavy rallies. Potapova expressed immense pride in her fighting spirit during the victory. She now faces 22nd seed Anna Kalinskaya, who advanced after beating Camila Osorio 6-3 0-6 6-2 to reach the last 16.