Kostyuk’s French Open Win Amid Personal Crisis

Marta Kostyuk faced immense pressure during her first-round victory at the French Open, after learning that a missile had narrowly missed her parents’ home in Ukraine. Playing on Court Simonne-Mathieu at Roland Garros, the 15th-seeded Kostyuk defeated Oksana Selekhmeteva 6-2, 6-3.

Kostyuk described the match as one of the hardest of her career. She received a message in the morning informing her that a missile had hit a building just 100 meters from her family’s home. The news shook her as she realized the potential devastation if the missile had landed closer. Her family, including 17 people, were unharmed, providing Kostyuk with great relief.

Despite the emotional turmoil, Kostyuk decided to play. She expressed gratitude for her family’s safety and emphasized her determination to continue, drawing inspiration from resilient Ukrainian people. Emotional moments during the match were followed by a heartfelt ovation from the crowd. Ukrainian flags filled the stadium, with friends and supporters urging her on.

During the match, Kostyuk struggled briefly when first serving to win, but managed to secure victory on her next attempt. In her next match, Kostyuk will face unseeded American Katie Volynets, while fellow Ukrainian Elina Svitolina prepares to challenge Anna Bondar.

High temperatures marked the opening day, with conditions reaching 33 degrees Celsius, pushing athletes to their limits. French player Arthur Gea had to take an emergency break during his match against Karen Khachanov due to the heat. Spectators sought relief by using newspapers as makeshift fans.

Elsewhere, Belinda Bencic triumphed over Sinja Kraus, with a 6-2, 6-3 win on Court Philippe-Chatrier. The day’s schedule included a match between Novak Djokovic and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Djokovic, now 39-years-old, will compete in his record 82nd Grand Slam tournament, surpassing Roger Federer and Feliciano Lopez.