Bianca Andreescu consoles teenage opponent after first round win in Roland-Garros 2026 qualifying

The 2026 French Open saw a demonstration of the best of sport as Bianca Andreescu delivered a heartfelt gesture to console her emotional opponent Daphnee Mpetshi-Perricard after beating her 6-3, 6-2 in the first qualifying round.

In her maiden appearance on the WTA Tour this year, 17-year-old Mpetshi-Perricard entered the tennis tournament as a wildcard and ranked No. 811 in the world.

Despite a first-set flurry of three straight games, the teenager was unable to deal with the former US Open champion’s power and composure, as Andreescu sealed the match in straight sets.

After taking the crowd’s applause, 25-year-old Andreescu, ranked No.160, noticed her counterpart in tears at the side of the court.

The Canadian quickly gestured to spectators to show appreciation to her opponent, before walking over to comfort her with a hug and words of encouragement.

It was the French youngster’s fourth consecutive attempt at qualifying for Roland-Garros, having previously suffered two first-round and one second-round exit in qualifying.

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