Gauff fails, Osaka triumphs: Surprises on day three

The third day of the French Open 2026 brought dramatic turns. Tagesschau reports that defending champion Coco Gauff lost to Austrian Anastasia Potapova in three sets. This ends the American's success story sooner than expected – a shock for the favorites.

While Gauff falters, others are writing their success stories. Zeit Online reports that Naomi Osaka has advanced to the quarterfinals of Roland-Garros for the first time in her career. The Japanese player also won her third match at the Paris tournament, making a statement that goes beyond her fashion appearances. It becomes even more spectacular in the confrontation with world number one Aryna Sabalenka – Le Monde confirms that the two players will now face each other.

German successes and geopolitical tensions

There is also reason for joy from a German perspective: Süddeutsche.de reports that Alexander Zverev has reached the quarterfinals. The German tennis professional continues his path through the tournament.

Another surprise comes from France itself. French player Diane Parry, the last Frenchwoman in the competition, defeated American Amanda Anisimova and thus reaches the quarterfinals for the first time in her Grand Slam career. For the Nice native, it is a major success that has delighted the French audience.

Beyond the main tournament, there is also excitement in the doubles arena: Indian players managed to defeat the world's best Korean doubles partners and advanced to the final of the Singapore Open – a sign of growing competitiveness among non-European players.

However, not everything proceeds harmoniously in sport. Deutschlandfunk reports on a match between Ukrainian Olijnykowa and Russian Schnaider, where much more than tennis is at stake: no handshake, serious accusations and many excuses characterize the encounter – a reflection of geopolitical tensions on the tennis court.