French Open fans were left in shock as third-seeded Amanda Anisimova suffered a stunning third-round exit at the hands of unseeded French player Diane Parry on June 5, 2024. The 23-year-old American, ranked 13th in the world, fell in straight sets 6-4, 3-6, 6-3, marking one of the most significant upsets of the tournament so far. The result sent Parry, 22, into the fourth round, where she will face either Aryna Sabalenka or Elena Rybakina.
The match, played on Court 11, showcased Parry’s tenacity and tactical adjustments, as she capitalized on Anisimova’s uncharacteristic errors. Anisimova, who reached the fourth round in 2023, struggled with her serve and consistency, particularly in the final set. Parry, a former top-20 player, demonstrated her resilience by breaking Anisimova’s serve in the 10th game of the third set, sealing the victory with a forehand winner down the line.
Upset in the Third Round
The upset has sparked discussions about Anisimova’s recent performance, as the 23-year-old has struggled to maintain her form since winning the 2023 US Open. Her defeat to Parry, who had not reached the fourth round of a Grand Slam since 2021, highlights the unpredictable nature of clay-court tennis. Parry, who rose to a career-high No. 14 in 2022, has been working to regain her footing on the WTA Tour after a series of injuries.
Parry’s victory was not without its challenges. Anisimova, a former US Open finalist, nearly pulled off a comeback in the second set, breaking Parry’s serve twice and forcing a tiebreak. However, Parry’s steady play and ability to handle pressure proved decisive. “I knew she was a tough opponent, but I stayed focused on my game,” Parry said after the match, according to WTA.com. “I trust my preparation, and I’m happy with how I handled the moments.”
Diane Parry is in the fourth round! pic.twitter.com/0g4jE9x0hY
— Roland Garros (@rolandgarros) June 5, 2024
Parry’s Path to Victory
Parry’s journey to the fourth round has been anything but straightforward. The French qualifier, who earned a spot in the main draw through the pre-tournament qualifying, has faced several setbacks this season. Her victory over Anisimova marks her first win over a top-15 player since 2022. The match also underscored her adaptability on clay, a surface she has struggled with in recent years.
Anisimova, meanwhile, will look to regroup ahead of the next Grand Slam. The American, who has been plagued by inconsistency this season, was aiming to build on her strong 2023 campaign. Her exit from the French Open raises questions about her preparation and ability to handle high-pressure matches. “I’m disappointed, but I’ll keep working,” Anisimova said in a post-match interview, according to ESPN. “I know I can do better.”
The result also has implications for the women’s draw. With Anisimova out, Parry’s path to the semifinals becomes slightly clearer, though she will face formidable challenges in the fourth round. The 2024 French Open has already seen several upsets, including the early exits of top-seeded Iga Świątek and Aryna Sabalenka, adding to the tournament’s drama.
What’s Next?
Parry’s next opponent, Aryna Sabalenka, is a three-time Grand Slam champion and currently ranked No. 2 in the world. The match, scheduled for June 7, will test Parry’s ability to maintain her momentum. For Anisimova, the focus shifts to the upcoming Wimbledon Championships, where she will aim to reclaim her form on grass courts.
The French Open continues to deliver surprises, with the third round proving to be a pivotal stage for several players. As the tournament progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how the remaining contenders perform. With the men’s and women’s finals set for June 9 and June 10, the stakes are higher than ever.
For now, Parry’s victory over Anisimova stands as
