Three-time defending Roland-Garros champion Iga Swiatek demonstrated remarkable resilience and precision in her quarter-final match on Tuesday, defeating Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina 6-1, 7-5.
This victory marks Swiatek’s 40th career win at the prestigious Paris tournament, placing her among tennis legends in the Open Era.
Despite Svitolina’s reputation as a fierce competitor—having defeated Swiatek in a hard-fought battle at Wimbledon 2023—the Polish player left no room for doubt on Tuesday. Swiatek dominated the first set, navigating four lengthy deuce games and taking control with impeccable angles and deep shots down the line.
Svitolina, a four-time Roland-Garros quarter-finalist, fought back in the second set, racing to a 3-1 lead. However, Swiatek’s champion mentality kicked in as she retaliated with a laser-focused forehand reminiscent of Rafael Nadal. She overturned the deficit by winning three consecutive games and clinched the match.
Key Stats & Records
37-0 Win Record: Swiatek has never lost at Roland-Garros after taking the first set.
26-Match Winning Streak: This streak in Paris equals Serena Williams’ longest Grand Slam winning streak in women’s tennis this century.
Winning Percentage: Only Nadal (96.6%) and Borg (96.1%) have a higher winning percentage at Roland-Garros than Swiatek (95.2%).
“I should have had better intensity at the start of the second set because Elina plays better under pressure,” Swiatek admitted in her post-match press conference. “But once I saw her stepping up, my focus and energy increased, and I was able to take control.”
Upcoming Semi-finals: A Final Before the Final?
Swiatek is now preparing for a high-stakes semi-final showdown against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. This match is a rematch of their electrifying final at the Madrid Open 2024, one of the most intense battles in recent women’s tennis history.
“She has been having a great season, so I won’t lie—it’s going to be a tough match,” Swiatek acknowledged, recognising Sabalenka’s well-rounded game across all surfaces. “But I love the challenge.”
As she approaches the opportunity to make history with a fourth consecutive Roland-Garros title, Swiatek remains focused on her ultimate goal: lifting the trophy once again on Court Philippe-Chatrier.
