Iga Swiatek survived a tense second-set scare to defeat the Netherlands’ Suzan Lamens 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 on Thursday, advancing to the third round of the US Open at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 2022 champion showed resilience to recover from mid-match errors and maintain her position as one of the tournament’s top contenders.
Also Read: Afghanistan Focuses on Effort, Not Targets, Ahead of Sharjah T20 Tri-Series
Swiatek, the second seed, has enjoyed a stellar season, claiming her sixth Grand Slam title at Wimbledon and winning the Cincinnati Open ahead of Flushing Meadows. The Pole’s performance against Lamens was a reminder of her consistency and fighting spirit, even when challenged under pressure. She will now face 29th seed Anna Kalinskaya in the third round, aiming to continue her deep run at the US Open.
The match started in Swiatek’s favour as she quickly broke Lamens’ serve in the second game. She also saved a critical break point in the third game with an unreturnable serve, showcasing her sharp court awareness. By the sixth game, Swiatek had secured another break from the baseline, leaving Lamens unable to register a single winner in the first set, which ended 6-1.
The second set, however, proved far more competitive. Lamens, who started slowly, fought back to level the score at 4-4, hitting a stunning backhand winner that clipped the baseline. Swiatek attempted to regain control in the seventh game with a powerful backhand, but her lead slipped away after a double fault in the eighth game and a backhand error on set point, allowing Lamens to capture the second set 6-4.
The decisive third set saw Lamens initially narrow the gap, surviving a 12-shot rally on a break point in the sixth game. Despite these moments of resistance, Swiatek regained composure and executed her game plan efficiently. The world number two held her final two service games comfortably, securing a 6-4 victory to move into the next round.
Swiatek’s win highlights her ability to handle pressure and adapt mid-match, essential traits for any contender in a Grand Slam. Her powerful baseline shots, strategic serving, and mental toughness proved decisive against a determined Lamens, who pushed the champion but ultimately could not sustain her challenge.
For Swiatek, the US Open represents an opportunity to add to her growing list of major achievements. Her campaign in New York is being closely watched by fans and analysts, as she aims to leverage her recent form and experience to advance further in the tournament.
The victory also underscores Swiatek’s status as a consistent performer on hard courts, having transitioned seamlessly from her grass-court success at Wimbledon to the fast-paced surfaces of the US Open. Her ability to recover from setbacks during the match demonstrates both technical skill and psychological resilience, key attributes for navigating the intense competition at Flushing Meadows.
Looking ahead, Swiatek will prepare for her clash against Kalinskaya, focusing on maintaining her rhythm and minimizing unforced errors. With her current form and determination, she remains a strong contender to progress deep into the US Open draw and potentially secure another major title this season.
