Ostapenko Ousts Pliskova At French Open; Halep v Anismova Fri.

It was a tough day for all Pliskovas against former champions at the French Open on Thursday. No. 2 seed Karolina Pliskova exited early from yet another Slam falling to 2017 winner Jelena Ostapenko 6-4, 6-2 in the second round.

“I think I was playing good today,” Ostapenko said. “I knew it was going to be a tough match, so I was trying to be very focused all match, playing my game. I tried to keep the ball in play to make sure I’m not missing and making too many unforced errors, but when I had the chance I was going for it.

“Obviously I knew she’s a great player so it’s going to be a tough match, but I think I played well today.”

The former No. 1 Pliskova has now failed to reach the quarterfinals at her last six Grand Slam events.

“I’m sure I could do much better,” Pliskova said. “I know that she can be tough if she’s playing well, but I think everything started with me. I was definitely not playing great. I think maybe same level as the match before but of course she’s a much better player.”

Ostapenko moves on to meet Paola Badosa who beat former finalist Sloane Stephens in a mild upset.

Kristyna Pliskova was on Lenglen but didn’t fare any better falling for 2016 winner Garbine Muguruza 6-3, 6-2.

“Happy because she is actually the first lefty I played the entire year, and it’s always tricky,” Muguruza said. “Also the fact that she has a big serve and it’s hard to break her. I had to stay very focused to keep my game smart and to stay solid on my serve as well, yeah, and find a way.

“I was happy with my shots and how I felt and certainly was a shorter match than the first one.”

Muguruza will challenge Danielle Collins on Saturday.

Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin came from a set down to defeat Ana Bogdan and Petra Kvitova won in straight sets over Jasmine Paolini.

On Friday, the third round opens with Simona Halep taking on Amanda Anisimova in a rematch of the American’s shock win last year in the quarterfinals.

Elise Mertens, Elina Svitolina and Kiki Bertens are also in action. Eugenie Bouchard battles the talented Iga Swiatek.

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