Rogers is into the biggest final of her career while Kasatkina steeled past No. 2 seed Paula Badosa in straight sets.

The No. 2 seed advanced, 7-6(4), 6-2, at the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic Friday to reach her fourth semifinal of the year.

Also lifting the trophy in Paris was Jean-Julian Rojer, who became the oldest men's doubles winner in the Open Era, partnering Marcelo Arévalo.

The world No. 1 won a 33rd straight match, making for the third longest streak since 2000 and her second straight major semifinal.

The experienced American cruised in the opening set, but once Kudermetova shook off the early jitters she rapidly asserted herself to complete a 1-6, 6-3, 6-1 comeback at Roland Garros.

Both defending champions have already proven they don’t need confidence-boosting wins or sustained momentum to conquer Paris. But in the meantime, a number of teams have established themselves as strong contenders during the clay season.

And we can't forget to shoutout Team #Isnerman after John Isner and Diego Schwartzman reached the final at the Foro Italico on their team debut.

The newly-minted world No. 2 predicted an intense battle against Halep, a former No. 1 and two-time Mutua Madrid Open champion.

The defending champion is also still in the running to become No. 2 in next week’s WTA rankings after scoring a first win in four attempts against her Russian nemesis.

Before each day's play at the BNP Paribas Open, we'll break down three must-see matches.