Defending champion Gauff crashes out of French Open in third round

Defending French Open champion Coco Gauff crashed out in the third round after a dramatic 4-6, 7-6 (7-1), 6-4 defeat to Anastasia Potapova. The American fourth seed appeared to be in control after winning the first set, but Potapova staged a remarkable comeback to secure one of the biggest wins of her career.

Potapova, 25, advances to the fourth round of the tournament for the first time. The match was characterized by long, physical rallies, with Potapova's defensive skills proving a constant frustration for Gauff. The Austrian player battled back after dropping the first set, showcasing resilience throughout the encounter.

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I’m cramping a little bit but it’s OK, it’s all good. I don’t have any words now, I’m extremely happy.

This upset adds to a string of high-profile exits at this year's French Open, with Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic also eliminated before the second week. Potapova admitted the match took a physical toll, stating, "I’m cramping a little bit but it’s OK, it’s all good. I don’t have any words now, I’m extremely happy."

She expressed immense pride in her performance, adding, "The fight we could show, both of us – Coco is such a champion and I respect her so much. I’m unbelievably proud of myself that I stayed there, that I was fighting until the last point." Potapova will face 22nd seed Anna Kalinskaya in the next round.

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The fight we could show, both of us – Coco is such a champion and I respect her so much. I’m unbelievably proud of myself that I stayed there, that I was fighting until the last point.