Roland Garros 2025 first shock: 'Dark horse' Marta Kostyuk falls against Czech underdog Sara Bejlek

Ukrainian star Marta Kostyuk, widely regarded as one of the most in-form players on the WTA Tour this spring, suffered a shocking first-round exit at Roland Garros 2025 at the hands of Czech qualifier Sara Bejlek 3-6, 1-6. This result left fans and pundits stunned, as it was expected that Kostyuk (world. No. 26) was a strong candidate to make a deep run in Paris.

The 22-year-old Kostyuk arrived at the French Open carrying impressive momentum as she had several great clay-court performances that include two very close matchups against world No. 1, Aryna Sabalenka in Madrid and Rome, reaching the quarters and the round of 16 respectively.

Her form in Rome was a strong suggestion that the Ukrainian was peaking just at the right time with Roland Garros a few weeks ahead, leading to be named by tennis analysts such as Andy Roddick as one of the biggest dark horses in the draw.

Her opening round was against world's No- 193, Sara Bejlek, a 19-year-old player from Czechia. Bejlek climbed all the way from the qualifiers to earn her spot at the main draw.

Bejlek, with nothing to lose, jumped to court against a rare version of Kostyuk, who struggled to find her rhythm since the first game.

Several factors likely contributed to Kostyuk's surprising defeat. The pressure of being favorite and the weight of expectations on her may have played a big role, as she was expected to make a good run in Paris. Her recent performances showcased a great level of tennis but also both mental and physical toughness as well.

The early exit of Kostyuk opens up her section of the draw, where she was projected to face world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the third round—a highly anticipated clash that will now not take place. Meanwhile, Sara Bejlek celebrates the biggest win of her career and looks forward to continuing her Roland Garros journey.