In a surprising turn at this year’s French Open, 22-year-old Lois Boisson, ranked 361st in the world, pulled off a stunning victory against third seed Jessica Pegula on Court Philippe Chatrier. Boisson overturned a first-set deficit to secure a 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 win, continuing her unexpected run at Roland Garros and drawing significant attention with her impressive performance.
Boisson’s journey has been remarkable, especially considering this is her first time competing in the main draw of a Grand Slam tournament. Prior to the French Open, she had not made a major breakthrough, but she defied expectations by defeating higher-ranked opponents Elise Mertens, Anhelina Kalinina, and Elsa Jaquemot to reach the round of 16. Her win over Pegula signifies a major upset given Pegula’s status as the world number three and one of the tournament favorites.
Sam Querrey compares Boisson’s athleticism to Grand Slam champion Sam Stosur
Commentator and former Wimbledon semifinalist Sam Querrey shared his observations on Boisson’s impressive comeback and athletic ability during an episode of the podcast Nothing Major. He highlighted the resilience she has shown after suffering a significant injury last year when she tore her ACL just before the previous French Open.
“[Lois] Boisson, injury, yeah. The injury was that she tore her ACL a year ago, and she’s now one of the best movers,”
—Sam Querrey, former Wimbledon semifinalist
“You see her move around the court and it’s unbelievable.”
—Sam Querrey, former Wimbledon semifinalist
Querrey emphasized Boisson’s unique physicality, describing her as a blend of two strong WTA players.
“She is like a combination of Sam Stosur and [Maria] Sakkari,”
—Sam Querrey, former Wimbledon semifinalist
“She is jacked. You can see the muscles in her legs. Unbelievable athlete.”
—Sam Querrey, former Wimbledon semifinalist
Further breaking down Boisson’s gameplay against Pegula, Querrey noted how her powerful serve and heavy forehand gave her an edge over the world number three, whose flat hitting style gave her trouble on returns.
“She [Boisson] has a big kick serve and forehand. Her backhand is so so. She chips it a lot,”
—Sam Querrey, former Wimbledon semifinalist
Querrey explained:
“But she has such a high, heavy forehand, and [Jessica] Pegula hits the ball flat, so it was getting up above Jessie’s shoulders, which is tricky for her.”
He also acknowledged the tension felt during the final moments of the match, reflecting the intensity experienced by fans and players alike.
“The last 15 minutes of that match were stressful around the grounds. The Jumbotron out here, everyone was watching.”
Querrey expressed sympathy for Pegula but praised Boisson’s efforts:
“I feel for Jess, that’s a tough loss for her. But credit to Boisson. She went out and earned it and hit big forehands and serves. She is really good.”
Drawing parallels with Sam Stosur’s unexpected US Open triumph in 2011
Boisson’s surprising success has led many to recall the 2011 US Open, where Sam Stosur, seeded ninth, defied expectations and won her first Grand Slam title. Similar to Boisson, Stosur was not considered a top favorite but displayed exceptional skill and mental strength throughout the tournament.
Stosur’s path to victory included notable wins over established players, as she eliminated formidable opponents across multiple rounds:
- 1st Round: Defeated Sofia Arvidsson
- 2nd Round: Defeated Coco Vandeweghe
- 3rd Round: Defeated [24] Nadezhda Petrova
- 4th Round: Defeated [25] Maria Kirilenko
- Quarterfinal: Defeated [2] Vera Zvonareva
- Semifinal: Defeated Angelique Kerber
Her final challenge was three-time champion Serena Williams, who came into the match without dropping a set. Stosur stunned spectators on Arthur Ashe Stadium by taking the first set 6-2 and maintaining control to seal a 6-2, 6-3 win, marking a historic moment in tennis.
This victory cemented Stosur’s name in Grand Slam history and stands as one of the sport’s most unexpected championship runs.
Upcoming challenges for Boisson as she aims for a historic French Open title
Boisson’s path is far from over, and the challenges ahead could be even tougher than those she has already faced. In the quarterfinals of this French Open, she is set to face Russia’s 18-year-old Mirra Andreeva, who has stood undefeated without losing a set so far in Paris. This contest will test Boisson’s stamina and skill under pressure on Wednesday, June 4.
If she advances, Boisson could then meet one of the American contenders in the semifinals, including either Coco Gauff or Jessica Pegula, both former Grand Slam champions. Should she overcome them, the final would presumably pit Boisson against world-class, experienced players like Iga Swiatek, a three-time defending champion, or world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Both potential finalists boast far more experience on the Grand Slam stage, setting the stage for a significant challenge for the French debutant.
While Boisson’s Cinderella run has already captivated fans and pundits alike, she will likely focus her energy on each match ahead, avoiding distractions and taking her campaign one step at a time. Her journey so far underscores the unpredictable nature of major tournaments, highlighting how a determined athlete can defy the odds and upend established hierarchies.