Poland’s world No.54 Iga Swiatek won the battle of two unseeded semifinalists by storming past Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska 6-2 6-1 to advance to the final of the French Open.
Making only her second main-draw appearance at Roland Garros, the 19-year-old Swiatek wasted little time in her matches this fortnight, including in her fourth-round upset of top seed and title favorite Simona Halep. Therefore, today’s quick win over a lower-ranked player on Court Philippe Chatrier was not a surprise.
Swiatek raced to a 3-0 lead in the first set and cruised through it without dropping serve. In the second set, Podoroska did earn one break, in the fifth game, but it only helped her avoid a bagel.
Teenager Swiatek has now become the first Polish woman in the Open Era to reach the Roland Garros final and the seventh unseeded finalist in Paris. Impressively, she’s done it without losing a set.
Despite today’s loss, the 23-year-old Podoroska will bring home a lot of precious memories from Paris. The world No.131 is the lowest-ranked woman to reach the semifinals at Roland Garros in the Open Era. By virtue of reaching the last four, the Argentinian will rise to No.48 in the new rankings.
Swiatek is now guaranteed to jump to a career-high ranking of No.24. Should she lift the title, she will break into the Top 20 at No.17.
Iga will make it a competitive final. She just needs to control her nerves. She has the talent.
Jim, the way Sswiatek beat Halep, and all her opponents, is awe-inspiring. It’s good to see two young and mentally strong players in the final. I would give the edge to Swiatek, but Kenin has the advantage of more experience as she’s already won one Slam.
Jim, the way Swiatek beat Halep, and all her opponents, is awe-inspiring. It’s good to see two young and mentally strong players in the final. I would give the edge to Swiatek, but Kenin has the advantage of more experience as she’s already won one Slam.
Marija, it should be a good final between Swiatek and Kenin. They both have a confident swagger and feistiness. Can’t wait!
Jim, I also expect a good final. It’s good to see two very young players with such strong games and mental toughness facing each other in a Grand Slam final.