World number one Aryna Sabalenka has been knocked out of the French Open in a major upset. The 25th seed defeated the top seed in a stunning result on clay.

Sabalenka’s exit shakes up the women’s draw. The top seed had been among the leading favourites for the title after a strong season.

The defeat ranks among the biggest upsets of the tournament. Her conqueror produced the match of her career on one of tennis’s biggest stages.

The result is a reminder of the depth in the women’s game. On any given day, a lower-ranked player can topple the best with the right performance.

The draw is now wide open. The remaining contenders will sense a golden chance to lift the trophy in Paris.

Sabalenka will now regroup for the rest of the season. The early exit is a setback, but she remains the player to beat on most surfaces.