French Open 2026 results: Elena Rybakina knocked out by Yuliia Starodubtseva in biggest upset so far

Two-time major champion Rybakina got off to a bright start against Court Suzanne Lenglen, taking a 5-1 lead before her game began to unravel.

Rybakina managed to score the first goal, but Starodubtseva won nine of the next 10 games to equalize the match and take a 3-0 lead.

Rybakina never looked convincing despite breaking back to force a tiebreak after the double break, and the double fault on the opening point was a sign of things to come.

Starodubtseva went on the offensive and continued to play aggressively to complete the biggest victory of her career.

It was the second French Open defeat in as many years for Ukrainian Starodubtseva, who beat 2024 runner-up and fourth seed Jasmine Paolini in the second round last year.

“I’m very happy. Elena is one of the best players, she had an incredible year and I’m very proud of myself for being able to do this today,” Starodubtseva said.

She will next face American 26th seed Hailey Baptiste or China’s Wang Xiyu.