Iga Świątek qualified for the thirds round of the French Open after à sensational victory over Naomi Osaka (7-6;1-6;7-5).

Iga started in a dominant fashion (4-2) thanks to an early break. But Naomi Osaka produced some truly sensational tennis. The Japanese even had a set point, which was saved by Świątek. This boosted her confidence and created a one-sided tiebreak (7-1), giving her a one set to love lead. 

The second set turned into a demonstration from Osaka, who outplayed her opponent in every aspect of the game. “Naochi” left only one game to the queen of clay (6-1). The least that can be said is that seeing Iga Świątek being dominated so badly, especially on her favourite surface, is quite unusual. 

In the third set, the Japanese stayed in front and even led (5-2), before having a match point. This is precisely where the nerves of steel of Świątek proved intact. The Pole not only saved the match point but also started a sensational comeback, winning 5 games in a row, thereby sealing her place in the third round in Paris. 

It took exactly three hours for the Varsovian to make her way against a truly impressive opponent. This match, considered by many as the match of the year so far when it comes to WTA Grand Slams, will be remembered. “1GA” showed once more that it is anything but a coincidence that she is world number 1. 

Iga was not the only Pole performing at Porte d’Auteuil on Wednesday. Hubert Hurkacz was facing the American Brandon Nakashima in the second round. The match was interrupted at 6-5 in the first set for Nakashima and is scheduled to continue on Thursday afternoon. 

Image: X (@TheTennisLetter)

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen