French Open 2026: Why Maja Chwalinska's tiny tattoo has provided meaning to her Roland Garros run

Maja Chwalinska is making her first appearance in the French Open main draw, having lost in qualifying in 2021, 2023 and 2025 After coming through her darkest hours, surprise French Open finalist Maja Chwalinska visited a tattoo parlour. A tiny word - 'free' - was etched on to the 24-year-old qualifier's left hand. Poland's Chwalinska, who is one win from joining Britain's Emma Raducanu and becoming only the second qualifier to lift a Grand Slam title, would not be drawn on why she chose that tattoo. "I will keep it to myself. You can make your own stories," Chwalinska said. After a Roland Garros run that was unthinkable a few weeks ago, it feels like there is big meaning in such a small word. Five years ago, Chwalinska took an indefinite break from tennis after losing in the first round of qualifying at Wimbledon. Chwalinska was suffering from a depression that left her feeling lifeless and unable to get out of bed. She had no idea when - or even if - she would return to the sport. The Pole went back to her family home and sought help from mental health specialists. When she was well enough, Chwalinska took up running and boxing as part of the recovery process and, after a four-mo