In contrast, the first set alone of Chwalinska’s win over world No.23 Diana Shnaider lasted longer than Andreeva’s entire match during a back-and-forth, mesmerising contest full of variety and changes in pace, trajectory, spins and depth.
The world No.114 became only the second qualifier to reach a Grand Slam final in the Open era with a 7-6(4), 6-4 result, her ninth victory during this fairytale stay in the French capital.
“It’s like a dream, honestly,” the left-hander said on court looking stunned. “I don’t know what’s going on.”
The Chatrier order of play had begun with the mixed doubles final when Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori defended their title and produced yet more good news for Italian tennis.
The top seeds recovered from the loss of the first set to beat Canadian-American team Gabriela Dabrowski and Evan King 4-6, 6-3, 10-4 to collect their fourth Grand Slam mixed doubles trophy.