French Open 2020 - Jelena Ostapenko sends second seed Karolina Pliskova out

ByEurosport

Updated 01/10/2020 at 15:27 GMT

Former champion Jelena Ostapenko knocks out second seed Karolina Pliskova from the French Open with a 6-4 6-2 win in the second round of the French Open after an error-ridden performance from the Czech.

Jelena Ostapenko made a stunning return to form as she ousted second seed Karolina Pliskova in the French Open second round.

The Latvian, who had previously suffered back-to-back first round exits after winning Roland Garros in 2017, came through 6-4 6-2 under the closed roof of Court Philippe Chatrier.

The 23-year-old Ostapenko broke her opponent's serve three times in the first set and twice in the second to seal her victory and ensure that Pliskova remained the only active former world number one who has not won a Grand Slam.

WTA Stuttgart

Ostapenko knocked out of Stuttgart in first round by teen debutant Noskova

16/04/2024 at 22:00

Ostapenko converted her third match point when Pliskova, who had 25 unforced errors, sent a forehand long and she will next meet Spaniard Paula Badosa.

• French Open 2020 - LIVE updates
• French Open 2020 order of play and schedule

Highlights | Jelena Ostapenko - Karolina Pliskova

"I was just trying to play my game, but I knew I had to return well today because she obviously has, like, one of the best serves on tour", Ostapenko told reporters.

"I think I was returning very well today. Also, I had to hold my serve, which I did pretty good. Also to use some drop shots, because it's a very good shot in these conditions."

Ostapenko painted the red clay with 27 winners against her opponent's nine while keeping her unforced errors to 19.

"I'm sure I could do much better. I know that she can be tough if she's playing well, but I think everything started with me," Pliskova told reporters, adding that she would possibly not play anymore in the 2020 season.

"Definitely I was not playing great. I think maybe the same level as the match before but of course she's a much better player. Not much to say about this match."

With additional reporting from Reuters

WTA Dubai

Ostapenko survives scare to overcome Wang, Azarenka eases to second round in Dubai

19/02/2024 at 13:35

WTA Linz

'Really amazing' - Ostapenko targets top 10 return after sealing WTA Linz title

04/02/2024 at 18:57

Australian Open

Ostapenko 'ready' for 2024 Australian Open after dominant Adelaide International triumph

13/01/2024 at 15:47