Loïs Boisson is the name on everyone’s lips at the 2025 French Open. The 22-year-old French player, who entered the tournament as a wildcard ranked No. 361 in the world, has become the story of the tournament, captivating fans with her improbable run to the semi-finals. Her journey is not just about rankings and statistics; it’s a testament to resilience, hard work, and the unwavering support of the home crowd.
From Injury Setback to Center Court Triumph
Boisson’s path to Roland Garros glory is paved with challenges. Just a year ago, she was sidelined with a torn ACL, an injury that threatened to derail her career. Ranked at a career-high of No. 152 before the injury, she saw her ranking plummet during her recovery. Missing out on her debut at the 2024 French Open due to the injury was a crushing blow, but Boisson used the setback as motivation.
Now, in 2025, she has not only made her Grand Slam debut but has also become the lowest-ranked woman to reach the semi-finals at Roland Garros since at least 1985. Boisson is also the lowest-ranked semi-finalist at any major since Kaia Kanepi at the 2017 US Open. Her remarkable comeback has resonated with fans, who have flocked to Court Philippe-Chatrier to witness her matches.
Key Victories Paved the Way
Boisson’s journey has been nothing short of sensational. En route to the semi-finals, she has achieved a series of stunning victories:
- First Round: Boisson recorded her first ever Grand Slam win, defeating 24th seed Elise Mertens.
- Second Round: She followed this up with a win against Anhelina Kalinina.
- Third Round: Boisson won against fellow wildcard Elsa Jacquemot.
- Fourth Round: In a stunning upset, Boisson defeated world No. 3 Jessica Pegula 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, a victory that sent shockwaves through the tennis world.
- Quarter-Finals: Boisson continued her dream run by defeating sixth seed Mirra Andreeva 7-6 (8-6), 6-3, booking her place in the semi-finals.
These wins are not just statistical anomalies; they are a reflection of Boisson’s tenacity and her ability to perform under pressure. Her aggressive baseline game, coupled with her mental fortitude, has proven to be a potent combination.
The “Ultimate Clay Court Player”?
Boisson’s agent, Jonathan Dasnières de Veigy, has described her as the “ultimate clay court player,” highlighting her technical skills and physical prowess on the surface. According to him, Boisson possesses a rare combination of traits, including the ability to generate significant topspin on her forehand, slice effectively, and vary her shots on both sides.
Beyond technique, Boisson’s physical conditioning has also been key to her success. Her muscular build, the result of months of dedicated training, allows her to endure the physical demands of clay-court tennis. Dasnières de Veigy emphasizes Boisson’s exceptional work ethic, noting her unwavering commitment to training and her attention to detail.
Impact on Rankings and French Tennis
Boisson’s performance at the French Open will have a significant impact on her world ranking. Before the tournament, she was ranked No. 361; however, her semi-final appearance will propel her into the top 100 for the first time, with a live ranking of around No. 65. This leap is not just a personal triumph but also a boost for French tennis.
Furthermore, Boisson’s success means she will become the new French No. 1, a testament to her rise and a source of pride for the nation. At a time when French tennis is looking for its next star, Boisson’s emergence is a welcome development.
Echoes of Past Surprise Runs
Boisson’s improbable run has drawn comparisons to other surprise quarter-finalists and semi-finalists in Grand Slam history. In recent years, players like Kaia Kanepi (2017 US Open) and Tsvetana Pironkova (2020 US Open) have made unexpected deep runs in major tournaments. However, Boisson’s story is unique due to her low ranking and her comeback from a serious injury.
While some surprise packages have struggled to maintain their form after their breakthrough performances, others have used their success as a springboard to greater heights. Whether Boisson can follow in the footsteps of Kim Clijsters, who won the US Open in 2009 after coming out of retirement, remains to be seen.
Semi-Final Showdown: Gauff Awaits
In the semi-finals, Boisson will face a formidable opponent in Coco Gauff. The American is currently ranked No. 3 in the world, and is a seasoned player on the big stage. This will be a significant test for Boisson, who will need to elevate her game even further to have a chance of reaching the final.
Gauff will present a different challenge compared to Boisson’s previous opponents. Her powerful serve, aggressive return game, and all-court prowess will put Boisson’s defensive skills to the test. The crowd support will undoubtedly be in Boisson’s favor, but she will need more than just that to overcome Gauff.
What’s Next?
Regardless of the outcome of her semi-final match, Loïs Boisson has already achieved something remarkable at the 2025 French Open. She has captured the hearts of fans with her inspiring story and her fearless brand of tennis. Her success is a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a belief in oneself.
Looking ahead, Boisson has the potential to become a mainstay on the WTA Tour. With her newfound confidence and her improved ranking, she will have access to more opportunities and resources. Whether she can build on her French Open success and achieve even greater heights remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Loïs Boisson has announced herself to the world, and she is here to stay.
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