French Open 2026: Medvedev exits as Sabalenka and Gauff advance
Sixth seed Daniil Medvedev suffers a fifth-set defeat to Australian wildcard Adam Walton, while world number one Aryna Sabalenka and reigning champion Coco Gauff secure first-round victories on a sweltering day at Roland Garros.
The 2026 French Open commenced at Roland Garros with significant results among the top seeds, as sweltering conditions in Paris tested the endurance of players and officials alike. World number one Aryna Sabalenka and reigning champion Coco Gauff secured comfortable victories in the first round, while sixth seed Daniil Medvedev suffered a major shock, losing to Australian wildcard Adam Walton in five sets.
Sabalenka defeated Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-4 6-2 to reach the second round. The Belarusian, who wore a black-and-red mesh outfit and a diamond necklace, stated she felt comfortable despite the heat and the style of her attire. She told reporters that feeling good looks-wise contributed to her performance, dismissing concerns about the added flourish by saying she did not feel the heaviness of the diamonds or the weight of the black colour.
In other top-seeded action, Naomi Osaka defeated Germany’s Laura Siegemund 6-3 7-6 (3) in straight sets. The 16th seed, who arrived in a sequined blouse and black mesh train, compared her appearance to the Eiffel Tower at night. Reigning champion Coco Gauff also advanced, defeating Taylor Townsend 6-4 6-0 after recovering from a sluggish start.
The most notable upset involved Daniil Medvedev, who crashed 6-2 1-6 6-1 1-6 6-4 to Adam Walton. This marked Medvedev’s seventh opening-round exit in 10 appearances at the tournament. Medvedev declined to offer excuses, noting he knew why he struggled at Roland Garros but chose to keep his reasoning private. He indicated he might consider playing a preparatory tournament next year.
Walton, hailing from Queensland, attributed his victory to his comfort in the heat, stating he grew up in similar conditions and could last longer than his opponent. He was joined in the next round by compatriot Alex de Minaur, who advanced after Belgian Alexander Blockx withdrew with a right ankle sprain.
Several other players advanced following retirements or withdrawals. Stefanos Tsitsipas won after Alexandre Muller retired while trailing 6-2 3-0. Briton Cameron Norrie withdrew from the tournament due to a rib injury, marking his first major withdrawal due to injury.
On the youth front, 17-year-old wildcard Moise Kouame defeated 2014 US Open champion Marin Cilic 7-6 (4) 6-2 6-1. The victory made Kouame the youngest man to win a Grand Slam main draw match in 17 years. Kouame described the result as exceptional and noted the hard work of his team to prepare for the tournament.
Jannik Sinner is scheduled to begin his quest for a maiden French Open title when he plays Frenchman Clement Tabur in the evening session on Court Philippe Chatrier. Several other Americans, including Learner Tien, Zachary Svajda, Emma Navarro, Iva Jovic, Claire Liu, and Ann Li, also progressed through their first-round matches.
