Iga Świątek, the top-ranked player in the world, showed complete dominance in her match against Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan, winning 6-0 6-1 in just 49 minutes to advance to the fourth round of the US Open.
In what was undoubtedly one of the most lopsided grand slam matches in recent memory, Juvan only managed to win 15 points throughout the entire match against a relentless Świątek. The Polish player continues to showcase her dominance as the top contender for the Flushing Meadows title.
Świątek has given up just nine games in her three matches so far in New York – seven of those coming in the comparatively difficult match against Daria Saville in the second round – with even her close friend Juvan not immune to being served up a bagel, the 20th of the year for the relentless Świątek.
Iga Świątek and Kaja Juvan have had a strong bond since their teenage years when they played together in junior tournaments. However, there was no room for nostalgia as Świątek quickly focused on her game.
In just 24 minutes, she had won the first set and quickly took a 3-0 lead in the second set. However, Juvan managed to win only one game throughout the entire match.
After scoring a point to make it 3-1, the Slovenian player received a round of applause from the crowd in the Louis Armstrong Stadium. However, shortly after, Świątek swiftly ended the match.
“I wasn’t happy about being ahead of my best friend, but I understood the importance of staying focused and not dwelling on it because it felt like competing against a sister. We have a long history together,” said Świątek following her victory.
“I may not have a large circle of friends, but she is my closest companion. That was the most challenging aspect.”
Świątek is looking practically unbeatable as she bids to defend her US Open title, making just five unforced errors in the near perfect performance on Friday. She will face either Jelena Ostapenko or American Bernarda Pera for a place in the quarterfinals.
Currently, the first ranked player is still adjusting to her own exceptional abilities.
“To be honest, I need to learn how to find more enjoyment in that,” she remarked.
Last week, I had a conversation with Roger Federer on this topic. According to him, the most effective approach is to fully embrace it and take pride in your outcomes.
“I constantly strive towards the future, always aiming to do better each day. That’s why I am grateful to have team members who remind me of the positive impact I am making. It’s important to recognize and value the journey and growth.”
Source: cnn.com
