Key facts
- The Russia-Ukraine war is a backdrop to the French Open.
- Geopolitical tensions from the war are palpable at the tournament.
- Both Russian and Ukrainian players have reached the latter stages.
- The sport is struggling to address the conflict's geopolitical implications.
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine is casting a shadow over the French Open, particularly the women's semi-finals and potentially the final. The geopolitical tensions stemming from the war are palpable during the sporting event. This situation is further complicated by the strong performances of both Russian and Ukrainian players in the latter stages of the tournament, drawing attention to the sport's struggle to effectively address such critical geopolitical flashpoints. Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk faces Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva as both players bid for a first grand slam final, before Diana Shnaider meets qualifier Maja Chwalinska.