PARIS — Maria Sharapova's impressive sequence of French Open results ended when the defending champion was knocked out 7-6 (3) 6-4 by 13th-seeded Czech Lucie Safarova in the fourth round on Monday.
The second-seeded Russian had reached the previous three finals at Roland Garros, winning in 2012 and 2014, but could not handle her opponent's steely forehand.
Safarova, who had never progressed to the quarter-finals on the Paris clay in 10 previous attempts, hit 20 forehand winners to unsettle the former world number one on Court Philippe Chatrier.
She next faces 21st seed Garbine Muguruza after the Spaniard went through to the last eight for the second year in a row by defeating Italy's Flavia Pennetta in straight sets.