Tennis Weekly — 2026-06-01

Tournament Recap

The 2026 French Open has delivered one of the most dramatic early rounds in recent memory. Most shockingly, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner suffered a stunning upset defeat, eliminating the defending champion and top seed from Roland Garros. His loss proved particularly significant because Novak Djokovic also exited unexpectedly, meaning for the first time in years there is no reigning Grand Slam champion remaining in the men's singles draw.

Beyond Sinner and Djokovic's exits, the early rounds have claimed other seeded contenders. Jessica Pegula, Elena Rybakina, Ben Shelton, and Daniil Medvedev have all suffered surprising defeats, creating significant openings in the tournament bracket.

Player Spotlight

Serena Williams Returns at 44

In one of tennis's most remarkable stories, Serena Williams announced she will make a sensational return to professional tennis at age 44. The 23-time Grand Slam winner has committed to playing at Queen's Club and is likely to compete at Wimbledon later this summer. Williams had previously stated in December she was not coming back, making this announcement a complete reversal and a major surprise to the tennis world.

Meanwhile, Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen continues her injury-plagued comeback after requiring elbow surgery last July. The Chinese star broke down in tears following a recent French Open defeat, marking another tough setback for a player who has managed only seven wins in 2026.

Amanda Anisimova has shown more promise in her recovery, securing a straight-sets victory in her French Open campaign after two months away from competition due to a left wrist injury.

Coming Up

With the men's draw wide open following the departures of Sinner and Djokovic, the remaining rounds of the 2026 French Open promise compelling tennis as a new Grand Slam champion emerges. Serena Williams' anticipated appearances at Queen's Club (typically held in late June) and Wimbledon will be major storylines as the grass court season approaches.