A number of Argentine athletes compete in the qualifying stages at Roland Garros in order to earn a spot in the main draw of this esteemed Grand Slam competition.  For these tenacious athletes, the Paris clay courts are a hive of activity that offers both grief and promise.

 At age 33, Andrea Collarini, currently ranked 204th, came very near to make his Grand Slam debut.  Sadly, his hopes were crushed as he lost in straight sets, 6-1, to 248-ranked Albert Ramos Viñolas of Spain.  Despite a valiant attempt, the Spaniard was too strong this time.  With a 5-1 deficit to Germany’s Maximilian Marterer (237), Federico had to retire from his match due to an injury, leaving him with the bitter taste of disappointment.

Thiago Tirante, rated 131, is still representing Argentina and is preparing for his next qualifying match against Ethan Quinn, ranked 106, an American.  With fans back home holding their breath in anticipation, the suspense rises as Tirante tries to earn his spot in the men’s main draw.

Argentina’s skill is evident on the women’s side as three players have won and are now only one win away from qualifying for the main tournament. Lourdes Carlé showed tenacity by defeating Katarzyna Kawa of Poland in an exciting 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 victory. Julia Riera defeated Talia Gibson of Australia with a strong effort, winning 6-4, 6-1. In the meantime, Solana Sierra defeated Daria Snigur of Ukraine by a decisive double 6-2 score. Each hard-won triumph caused the stands to roar, demonstrating their tenacity and will.

Carlé’s next opponent is Justina Mikulskytė of Lithuania, who is rated 223rd.  Sierra is getting ready to take on China’s 132-ranked xiyu wang in the pivotal qualifying round, while Riera anxiously awaits the result between Romanian players Bulgaru and Tig to decide her next opponent.  These games are sure to be thrilling because everything is on the line.