Iga Swiatek claimed her inaugural Cincinnati Open title on Monday by defeating Jasmine Paolini 7-5, 6-4. The Polish third seed made a strong statement ahead of the US Open.
The six-time Grand Slam champion didn’t drop a set en route to the title and was decisive in the final, converting all six break points to secure her 11th WTA 1000 title, her first since the previous year’s Italian Open.
Swiatek is now the second-most successful player in WTA 1000 history, only behind Serena Williams (23 titles).
“I want to thank my team. I can’t explain why I’ve won tournaments like these when I didn’t expect to perform well,” Swiatek expressed.
“Thanks for pushing me to become a better player and learning to adapt to faster surfaces. I’m thrilled and surprised.”
Paolini began strongly, racing to a 3-0 lead and nearly breaking Swiatek twice. Yet, Swiatek responded with a five-game streak and, after missing her first chance to close the opening set, succeeded on her second attempt.
Swiatek maintained her momentum in the second set, saving two break points at 4-3, and stayed firm to get within one game of victory. She clinched the win with her first match point via a powerful serve, extending her undefeated record against the Italian to 6-0.
The victory ensures the Wimbledon champion Swiatek will rise back to world number two, securing the second seed for the year’s final major at Flushing Meadows, with singles matches starting Sunday.
Swiatek will also partner with Norway’s Casper Ruud in the new US Open mixed doubles event.
Earlier, Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz won the men’s title after top seed Jannik Sinner retired in the first set.
