French Open 2026: Elina Svitolina and Marta Kostyuk Set for All-Ukrainian Quarterfinal Clash

Seventh seed Elina Svitolina and 15th-ranked Marta Kostyuk have made history for Ukrainian tennis at Roland Garros, becoming two of only three Ukrainian women to reach the singles quarter-finals at the French Open in the Open era. Their progress highlights not only their individual quality but also the growing depth of women’s tennis in Ukraine, with four Ukrainian women reaching the third round during the tournament. It is only the second time that two players from Ukraine have reached the quarter-finals of the same Grand Slam event.

Former British women’s number one Johanna Konta described the moment as a major milestone for the sport in Ukraine, praising both players for their influence beyond the court. She said Svitolina and Kostyuk are “incredibly well-spoken, inspirational and philanthropic,” adding that they represent much more than tennis and are a source of pride for their country.

Svitolina, a four-time major semi-finalist, advanced to her sixth French Open quarter-final and her seventh Grand Slam quarter-final since returning to professional tennis after giving birth to her daughter three years ago. The 31-year-old has remained one of the most consistent performers on clay and continues to be one of Ukraine’s leading sporting figures.

For Kostyuk, who is eight years younger than Svitolina, this is only the second time she has reached the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam. Her previous appearance at this stage came at the 2024 Australian Open. The 15th seed’s run at Roland Garros further underlines her rise as one of Ukraine’s top players and one of the most promising names in women’s tennis.

Kostyuk will now face Svitolina in an all-Ukrainian quarter-final, a matchup that carries both competitive and symbolic significance. Speaking about the encounter, Kostyuk said she has a close relationship with Svitolina and called her a legend of Ukrainian tennis. She said it is an honor to share the court with someone who has paved the way for so many young Ukrainian players.

Kostyuk also praised Svitolina’s strong form this season, saying her compatriot has been “doing unbelievable” and expressing excitement for the match. The meeting will guarantee a Ukrainian player a place in the French Open semi-finals, marking another landmark moment for the nation’s tennis development.

The achievements of Svitolina and Kostyuk at Roland Garros reflect a broader rise in Ukrainian women’s tennis, with both players combining talent, resilience and leadership on the sport’s biggest stages. Their presence in the quarter-finals has drawn international attention and stands as one of the standout stories of the tournament.