As the 2025 French Open progresses into its second week, tennis enthusiasts are gearing up for thrilling fourth-round encounters featuring top seeds Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz. Both players are set to face formidable American opponents, Amanda Anisimova and Ben Shelton respectively, in matches that promise high drama and significant implications for the tournament’s outcome.
Sabalenka vs. Anisimova: A Battle of Power and Precision
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka has been in scintillating form at Roland Garros, advancing to the fourth round without dropping a set. Her latest victory, a commanding 6-2, 6-3 win over Serbia’s Olga Danilovic, showcased her aggressive baseline play and powerful serving.
Next, Sabalenka faces 16th seed Amanda Anisimova, a player known for her tactical acumen and clean ball-striking. Anisimova, a former French Open semifinalist, has been impressive in her comeback, defeating Clara Tauson 7-6(4), 6-4 to reach the last 16.
The head-to-head record favors Anisimova, who leads 5-2 against Sabalenka. However, their upcoming clash will be their first meeting on clay, adding an element of unpredictability to the encounter.
Alcaraz vs. Shelton: Youthful Exuberance Meets Experience
Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz continues his title defense with a fourth-round match against 13th seed Ben Shelton. Alcaraz, seeded second, overcame a stern test in the third round, defeating Damir Dzumhur in four sets: 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4 .
Shelton, making his first fourth-round appearance at Roland Garros, has shown remarkable progress on clay, capturing his maiden ATP clay title earlier this season. He advanced by defeating Matteo Gigante in straight sets: 6-3, 6-3, 6-4.
While Alcaraz holds a 2-0 advantage in their previous meetings, this will be their first encounter on clay, a surface that tests endurance and tactical versatility.
American Resurgence at Roland Garros
The presence of multiple American players in the fourth round marks a significant resurgence for U.S. tennis. In the men’s draw, Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, and Tommy Paul have all advanced to the last 16, marking the first time since 1995 that three American men have reached this stage at the French Open.
On the women’s side, Amanda Anisimova and Madison Keys are leading the charge. Keys secured her spot in the fourth round after a hard-fought victory over Sofia Kenin, winning 4-6, 6-3, 7-5.
As the tournament advances, the upcoming matches featuring Sabalenka vs. Anisimova and Alcaraz vs. Shelton are poised to be highlights of the fourth round. These encounters not only feature top-tier talent but also carry the weight of national pride and the potential to reshape the dynamics of the tournament.
Fans can catch all the action live on TNT Sports 1 and 4, with streaming available via discovery+ . With high stakes and compelling narratives, the French Open continues to deliver world-class tennis and unforgettable moments.
