World No. 1 Sabalenka Beats the Heat to Advance at French Open

Sabalenka cruises past Bouzas Maneiro in Roland Garros opener

The world No. 1 overcame hot conditions on Court Philippe Chatrier, bouncing back after a Rome exit to win her French Open opener in 75 minutes.

 

Sabalenka told fans to stay hydrated during the Paris heatwave after her 6-4, 6-2 win, as she begins another attempt at a first French Open title.

Aryna Sabalenka launched her bid for a first Roland Garros title with a strong straight-sets win over Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.

The world No. 1 defeated the Spaniard 6-4, 6-2 on Tuesday to open her French Open run.

Game, set and match, Sabalenka 💥#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/TiuYo8bUCk

— Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) May 26, 2026

 

Sabalenka handled the hot conditions and advanced to the round of 64 in just over 75 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.

The only blemish for the four-time Grand Slam champion came as she tried to serve out the match. After returning to winning ways on clay following a surprise early exit in Rome, she dropped her serve there. Sabalenka responded immediately by breaking the world No. 50 in the next game. She then cooled off with an ice bag on her face before leaving the court.

Straight sets @SabalenkaA! 💥

The No.1 seed breezes through to Round 2 👊#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/DANVOSy6vc

— wta (@WTA) May 26, 2026

 

“Happy to be back, thank you for the support. It's a hot day, thank you so much for staying and don't forget guys, stay hydrated,” Sabalenka told the spectators on centre court. A heatwave continues to roll over Paris for the start of the tournament.

“I think we all feel pressure... But I'm used to it so I know how to ignore (it),” the Belarusian top seed added. She was speaking as she began her latest attempt at winning a first title at the French Open.

Aryna Sabalenka at Grand Slams 🔥#RolandGarros pic.twitter.com/FfXDWdiWZT

— wta (@WTA) May 26, 2026