Aryna Sabalenka said she wanted “to quit tennis” after a shocking defeat, according to The Guardian. The world No. 1 lost to 25th seed Diana Shnaider in the quarter-finals of the French Open on May 27, 2026, in a match filled with tension and unexpected turns.
What happened
Aryna Sabalenka experienced one of her worst performances, losing 10 consecutive games en route to a 3-6, 7-5, 6-0 defeat against Diana Shnaider. In her post-match press conference, she expressed her emotions, stating, “No thoughts, no emotions. Just want to quit tennis right now.” This marked a significant turning point in her career, considering her previous consistency.
Initially leading 6-3, 4-1, and only two points away from victory, Sabalenka faltered under pressure. “Mentally I got into a very deep, deep, dark hole,” she admitted. Shnaider’s performance shone in contrast, showcasing her ability to capitalize on Sabalenka’s vulnerabilities. This victory marked Shnaider’s first semifinal appearance in a grand slam.
Why it matters
The implications of Sabalenka’s defeat are considerable as she had been a favorite to win her first French Open title. Her struggle to maintain composure in critical moments, especially after a prior loss in the finals, raises questions about her mental fortitude in high-stakes situations. The match exemplified how pressure can vastly alter the dynamics of a competition.
Background
On June 7, 2025, Sabalenka faced a challenging loss against Coco Gauff in the French Open final, showcasing her ongoing battle with nerves during crucial matches. Her performance in earlier rounds of the 2026 tournament had appeared steady, but her collapse in the quarter-finals starkly contrasts her previous success.
What’s next
Diana Shnaider will next face Maja Chwalinska in the semifinals on May 30, 2026, while Aryna Sabalenka will need to regroup mentally to prepare for future competitions.
