Iga Swiatek Dominates Aryna Sabalenka to Clinch Italian Open Title
World number one Iga Swiatek continued her impressive form on the clay courts, clinching the Italian Open title with a commanding 6-2, 6-3 victory over Aryna Sabalenka in the final. The top-seeded Pole did not drop a set throughout the tournament at the Foro Italico, extending her winning streak on the tour to 12 matches.
Swiatek’s Dominant Display
In a dominant display, Swiatek brushed aside her third-ranked opponent Coco Gauff in the semifinals before outclassing Sabalenka, the world number two, in the final. The 22-year-old Polish sensation became the first woman to complete the “dirt double” of winning the Madrid and Rome titles back-to-back since Serena Williams in 2013.
Preparation for the French Open
Swiatek’s victory in Rome serves as a strong statement of intent ahead of the upcoming French Open, where she will be aiming for her third consecutive and fourth overall Roland Garros title. Despite her impressive form, the world number one remains grounded, emphasizing the need to stay humble and focused on taking things step by step in the challenges that lie ahead.
Sabalenka’s Acknowledgment
Sabalenka, who had to save three match points against Swiatek in their previous encounter at the Madrid Open, acknowledged the Pole’s all-round quality, stating, “Her movement is incredible. You always know that you have to build the point and you have to finish the point.” The Belarusian, however, remains determined to make amends and reach the Roland Garros final, where she hopes to finally get the better of her rival.
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