Upset in [Tournament Name]: World No. 361 Boisson Defeats No. 3 Seed Pegula

Lois Boisson, previously ranked as high as 152nd in the world, has achieved a remarkable upset at the French Open 2025.

French Open 2025

Dates: May 25 – June 8 Venue: Roland Garros

Coverage: Live radio coverage on BBC 5 Live Sport and BBC Sounds; live text updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

World number 361 Lois Boisson delivered the tournament’s biggest surprise, securing a stunning fourth-round victory over third seed Jessica Pegula.

The French wildcard entry, competing in her first Grand Slam main draw after recovering from an ACL tear last year, triumphed 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 against the US Open finalist.

Boisson, making her Grand Slam debut, had never previously faced a top-50 opponent.

The 22-year-old displayed remarkable composure, saving four break points while serving for the match at 5-4 in the third set before clinching victory with a powerful forehand winner.

On Court Philippe Chatrier, Boisson was greeted by enthusiastic chants of “Lois!” as the magnitude of her achievement sunk in.

“I’m speechless. Playing on this court, with this atmosphere, was incredible,” Boisson shared.

“I gave everything, and to win is unbelievable. I hope to win the whole thing!”

She will next face sixth seed Mirra Andreeva for a place in the semi-finals.

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Boisson’s achievement marks the lowest-ranked player to reach the French Open fourth round since Serena Williams in 2018 (world number 451). She is also the lowest-ranked player to reach a major quarter-final since Kaia Kanepi at the 2017 US Open (world number 418).

Boisson’s journey is one of remarkable resilience. Twelve months ago, following success in WTA 125 tournaments, she received a wildcard for her home Grand Slam.

However, a week before the tournament, she suffered an ACL tear in her left knee, missing nine months of the season.

A tattoo reading “resilience” serves as a constant reminder of her dedication, and her victory over Pegula stands as powerful testament to her perseverance.

Initially, Pegula’s consistency, particularly her effective drop shots, proved challenging in the first set. Boisson found her rhythm in the second, capitalizing on Pegula’s errors.

Despite a brief lapse, Boisson regained control at 4-4, ultimately winning the set. The decisive third set followed a similar pattern, with Boisson’s determination and crowd support ultimately securing her victory.

Her celebratory roar and triumphant pose perfectly encapsulated the momentous occasion.

Boisson becomes the first French woman to reach the Roland Garros quarter-finals since Caroline Garcia and Kristina Mladenovic in 2017.