Sydney, Jan 4 (NationPress) Iga Swiatek has propelled Poland into its second straight United Cup final with a determined victory over one of her toughest competitors in the semi-final match held in Sydney on Saturday.
In a thrilling encounter featuring Top 10 players and Grand Slam champions, Swiatek triumphed over Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina with a score of 7-6(5), 6-4, giving Poland an unassailable 2-0 lead as they advance to the finals in 2024. Earlier, Hubert Hurkacz laid the groundwork for Swiatek’s clinching performance by securing a dominant win against Alexander Shevchenko.
"I believe this is the first time I’ve managed to beat Elena on a faster court, which holds significant meaning for me. I didn’t start off strong, and it felt like I was operating with the handbrake on," Swiatek remarked.
"I aimed to really work on changing the momentum, and I’m pleased that I managed to do so at the last possible moment in the first set. I told myself that I wouldn’t miss again, and I’m happy because it was definitely challenging. Competing against Elena is always tough."
Rybakina, known for being one of the few players who regularly gives five-time major champion Swiatek a run for her money, came into Saturday’s match with a solid track record, having won four of their six previous showdowns. The 2022 Wimbledon champion showcased her characteristic power early on, utilizing deep, punishing strokes to unsettle Swiatek and take a 5-3 lead as Swiatek battled with several forehand errors.
Facing a deficit, Swiatek regained her rhythm, increasing the pace during rallies and breaking back for 5-5 on her fourth break point of the game. She then earned two set points at 6-5, but Rybakina fought through a marathon 13-minute game to push the match into a tie-break.
The tie-break was tightly contested, with the first eight points going to the returner. However, two consecutive backhand errors from Rybakina handed Swiatek a pair of set points. Swiatek finally seized her fourth opportunity, clinching the first set after 72 minutes of intense play.
In the second set, Swiatek missed two early break opportunities but took control with a love break to lead 4-3. Demonstrating exceptional defense, she fended off a break point in the final game before sealing her victory. The former World No. 1 now boasts an impressive 12-1 singles record at the United Cup.
Earlier in the day, Hubert Hurkacz set the tone for Poland’s success, delivering a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory over Alexander Shevchenko in the opening match. This win continued Hurkacz’s impressive form and redemption journey at the United Cup.
"My last match here boosted my confidence, and I’ve been improving with every match I play," Hurkacz stated.
