Alexandra Oleynikova proved that in tennis, the score on the scoreboard is not yet a death sentence. In a dramatic second-round match at the French Open, the Ukrainian made an incredible comeback, defeating Australian Kimberly Birrell with a score of 6:3, 0:6, 7:6. The match, which lasted more than two hours, became a real test of nerve strength.
From Triumph to Catastrophe
The beginning of the match unfolded for the 25-year-old Ukrainian according to all the canons of success. Confidently taking the first set with a score of 6:3, she looked like a favorite. However, in the second set, Oleynikova's game suddenly fell apart. The Australian, who sensationally knocked out fifth-seeded Jessica Pegula at the start of the tournament, completely took the initiative, not giving her opponent a single game. The crushing 'bagel' 0:6 put the Ukrainian on the verge of elimination from the major.
Battle in the Super Tie-break
The third set turned into a nervous duel. Oleynikova, who conceded a break at the beginning of the set, managed to quickly even the situation. The opponents went hand in hand, bringing the game to the decisive super tie-break. In this lottery, luck and strong nerves were on the side of the Ukrainian — she won with a score of 10:5.
Historic Breakthrough and Future Plans
This victory became Alexandra's second in the main draw of Grand Slam tournaments and her first career advance to the third round of majors. Notably, the current Roland Garros became her debut on the Paris courts.
The tennis player has no time to rest: on May 28, she is expected to start in the doubles in a duo with Hungarian Panna Udvardi. In the singles tournament, Oleynikova's next opponent will be the winner of the pair Diana Shnaider (23rd seed) — McCartney Kessler.
Ukrainian Descent in Paris
The results of Ukrainian athletes this week are impressive. Oleynikova became the fourth representative of the country to break into the round of 16. The day before, Elina Svitolina, Marta Kostyuk, and Yulia Starodubtseva secured their tickets to the third round. The only disappointment was the elimination of Angelina Kalinina, who lost to Diane Parry, despite a confident victory in the first set.
