Maja Chwalinska wrote her name into Grand Slam history by becoming the first qualifier to reach a singles final since Emma Raducanu's 2021 US Open breakthrough. The world No 114 defeated 25th seed Diana Shnaider 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 in a high-quality semi-final, showcasing power and precision winners that left her opponent frustrated on Court Philippe-Chatrier.

Chwalinska's remarkable run follows just two previous main-draw qualifications, with only one win at Wimbledon 2022. She converted crucial breaks in both sets, sealing victory with a forehand winner on her first match point. The win comes 24 hours after Shnaider's stunning upset of world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka, making the qualifier's triumph even more impressive.

Mirra Andreeva advanced to her first Grand Slam final by defeating Marta Kostyuk 6-1 6-3 in just 76 minutes. The 19-year-old Russian handled her second Roland-Garros semi-final with composure, avenging two previous losses to Kostyuk this season including the Madrid Open final.

Political tensions overshadowed the occasion as Andreeva and Kostyuk posed separately for photos, reflecting Ukraine's stance against Russian players. No handshake occurred post-match, with Kostyuk waving to supporters draped in Ukrainian flags. Both finalists now compete for their maiden Grand Slam titles on Saturday.