Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk advanced to the French Open’s round of 16 on Friday, securing a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic in Paris to continue her perfect clay court season.
The 23-year-old world number 15 faced a challenging match against the seasoned Golubic, who is ten years older. Both players engaged in extended, powerful exchanges from the baseline that produced spectacular winning shots.
The opening set lasted more than an hour, with Golubic managing to save three set points, including one with an aggressive net volley, before finally losing the set on her own mistake at the fourth chance.
Kostyuk took control in the second set, securing an early break of Golubic’s serve and maintaining her advantage. She utilized her serve effectively throughout, calling it her “favourite shot.”
“I feel like I found again that joy of creating points, changing rhythm, running around a little bit, and it’s something I love to do,” Kostyuk said.
“It’s something that’s not very difficult for me, so I love to take that advantage against players. Maybe that’s the key,” she added.
Leading 4-2 in the second set, Kostyuk secured her advantage with an unconventional under-arm serve.
This marks her first appearance in Roland Garros’ final 16 since 2021. Her next opponent will be four-time champion Iga Swiatek.
