Jannik Sinner Powers Into French Open Last 16, Jessica Pegula And Mirra Andreeva Also Advance
Paris, May 31, 2025 — Jannik Sinner stormed into the last 16 of the French Open on Saturday with a dominant straight-sets victory, reaffirming his status as one of the top contenders for the Roland Garros crown. On a thrilling day at Court Philippe-Chatrier, the Italian star's precision and power overwhelmed his opponent, while American Jessica Pegula and rising Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva also secured their spots in the second week of the Grand Slam.
Sinner's Steely Show of Strength
Sinner, the second seed, defeated Argentina’s Tomas Martin Etcheverry 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in a match that underlined his growing maturity on clay. From the opening game, Sinner was in control, breaking serve early and dictating rallies with a combination of blistering groundstrokes and deft drop shots.
"I feel good physically and mentally," Sinner said after the match. "Every round is a new challenge, but I’m enjoying my tennis and the support here in Paris has been incredible."
Sinner’s game has flourished in 2025. With a strong start to the season, including a title win in Rome and a deep run at the Australian Open, he arrived in Paris as a favorite. Saturday’s match only cemented that perception as he hit 32 winners to just 15 unforced errors in under two hours of play.
Pegula Keeps American Hopes Alive
Jessica Pegula continued her steady progress in the tournament with a hard-fought 7-6(5), 6-3 win over Czech player Marie Bouzkova. The No. 5 seed faced stiff resistance in the first set, with Bouzkova forcing a tiebreak after both players held serve throughout. Pegula eventually clinched the set with a series of aggressive returns and pinpoint volleys.
In the second set, Pegula raised her level and broke serve twice, showcasing her tactical acumen and trademark consistency from the baseline. "It was a tough match. She’s a great competitor, but I stayed focused and tried to play my game," Pegula noted in her post-match interview.
With fellow Americans Coco Gauff and Madison Keys already out, Pegula’s run provides a crucial lifeline for U.S. hopes in the women’s draw.
Teen Sensation Andreeva Advances
16-year-old Mirra Andreeva once again captured the crowd’s imagination with her fearless tennis and mature composure. The young Russian defeated Italy’s Jasmine Paolini 6-2, 7-5, booking her place in the last 16 of a Grand Slam for the second time in her fledgling career.
Andreeva, who has drawn comparisons to Martina Hingis for her court sense and movement, impressed with her ability to absorb pace and counterpunch effectively. Despite a late resurgence from Paolini in the second set, Andreeva held firm, saving two break points before sealing the match on her second opportunity.
"I’m trying not to think too far ahead. I just want to enjoy each moment on court," Andreeva said, speaking in remarkably fluent French that delighted the home crowd.
Looking Ahead
Sinner now faces Norway’s Casper Ruud, a finalist in Paris in both 2022 and 2023, setting up a blockbuster encounter. Their contrasting styles — Sinner’s aggressive baseline play against Ruud’s defensive mastery — promise a compelling contest.
Pegula will take on Ukrainian Anhelina Kalinina, while Andreeva is set to meet defending champion Iga Swiatek in what could be a career-defining moment for the teenager.
Other Results
In other matches on Saturday, Alexander Zverev edged past Cameron Norrie in a five-set thriller, and Aryna Sabalenka crushed her opponent in under an hour, sending a clear message to her rivals. Carlos Alcaraz, meanwhile, continues to impress, defeating French hopeful Arthur Fils in straight sets.
Conclusion
The French Open’s first week has seen its share of upsets, drama, and emerging narratives, but the stars are beginning to align as the tournament heads into its crucial second week. For Jannik Sinner, Jessica Pegula, and Mirra Andreeva, Saturday’s victories could be a prelude to deeper success in Paris.
Whether it’s the composure of a young prodigy, the consistency of an American stalwart, or the ruthlessness of a top contender, Roland Garros 2025 is serving up a feast of high-caliber tennis — and fans will be eagerly watching what unfolds next.
