Despite having struggled in her opening game at the Australian Open against the German Jule Niemeier, Iga Świątek logically qualified for the second round by 6-4; 7-5 in just about an hour. 

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The beginning of the match was laborious for both contenders, who neutralised each other with strong and offensive tennis. It’s eventually the Varsovian who, having managed to break, took the opening set (6-4).

The game remained tight in the second set, with both players preventing the other from taking the lead. The world number 1 rallied from a break down in the second set (3-5). At that decisive moment, the Polish champion pushed on the accelerator and sealed the deal, just after breaking at the best possible moment (7-5).

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Iga now continues her way in the draw, proving with this opening match that she is indeed the favourite of the first major tennis of the year in Melbourne. On Monday, she started her 42nd week as world number 1, with many more to come. 

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The Pole will face the Colombian Camila Osorio (WTA 84th) in the night from Tuesday to Wednesday. 

Image: Twitter @JJlovesTennis

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen