Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff advanced to the next round during the third day of the 2026 French Open on May 26 [1].
These results signal a volatile start to the tournament, as high-seeded players struggle against both opponents and extreme weather conditions in Paris.
Matches took place at Roland Garros under sweltering heat [1], [2]. Sabalenka utilized the heat wave to impose her attacking game and secure a victory [3]. While some reports indicate she has powered into the second round [2], other accounts specify the win occurred during the first round [3].
Coco Gauff also advanced from her match on Tuesday [1], [4]. Her progress keeps the top women's seeds on track despite the challenging temperatures reported across the grounds [2], [5].
The men's draw experienced a significant shock on day three [1]. Daniil Medvedev suffered a first-round defeat to Adam Walton [4]. This loss marks the first Top 10 player upset of the 2026 French Open [4].
Medvedev's exit in five sets represents a major shift in the tournament bracket [3]. The loss removes one of the primary contenders from the competition early in the event.
“Daniil Medvedev suffered a first-round defeat to Adam Walton.”
The early exit of Daniil Medvedev opens the draw for lower-seeded players and alters the championship projections for the men's side. Meanwhile, the ability of Sabalenka and Gauff to navigate the extreme heat suggests a high level of physical preparation, which may become a deciding factor as the tournament progresses into later rounds.
