On Saturday, Iga Świątek claimed her third French Open title in four years by defeating Karolína Muchová in a 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 match in the women’s final.
Throughout most of the game, it appeared that the top-ranked player would control the match in a similar manner to how she had won her previous three grand slam titles. After all, Świątek had never been defeated in a set during a grand slam final and she started by showcasing the same strength and reliability that has established her as a dominant presence on clay since her first French Open victory at the age of 19 in 2020.
After taking a 3-0 lead in the second set, Świątek seemed to be on the path to an easy win. However, Muchová turned things around by finding her groove and making successful shots that had previously missed the mark. She appeared to have control over Świątek’s game and was able to break her opponent effortlessly.
After Świątek unexpectedly lost the second set, the match became chaotic in the third. Both players continuously broke each other’s serves and fought for the crucial moment that would lead them to victory at Roland Garros.
In the end, it was Świątek who once again proved her star status, successfully serving under pressure and saving a break point. She took the lead 5-4 in the final set and then proceeded to break Muchová in the following game, securing her second consecutive French Open championship. Overcome with joy, she collapsed to the ground in celebration.
“I was truly impressed by your diverse skills on the court and I look forward to seeing many more finals between us,” Świątek conveyed to Muchová following an emotional trophy ceremony.
“My team is the reason I am here,” she said. “I am aware that winning this tournament was not an easy feat, considering the long weeks on tour without any breaks. I am grateful to my family and all those who traveled from Poland to support me. The love and support I have received has been overwhelming and I am thankful for it. Being here is truly a joy for me, as this is my favorite place to be on tour.”
Muchova’s performance in the tournament had been impressive, even before the surprising ending. She reached her first grand slam final, just one year after being warned by doctors that her injuries might end her tennis career.
At the tournament, she demonstrated her determination by bouncing back from being down 2-5 and facing a match point against the second-ranked player in the world, Aryna Sabalenka, in the semifinals. She went on to win five consecutive games and shock Sabalenka, securing her spot in her first ever major final.
She expressed her gratitude and amazement with tears in her eyes as the audience rose to applaud her. Playing against one of the best, she acknowledged that sometimes victory can feel just out of reach. She extended her thanks to those who work behind the scenes, including the staff who assist in the lockers, the physiotherapists, and the ball kids. Lastly, she thanked her team, noting that they make her feel like a winner every time she sees them.
Initially, Świątek’s strength kept Muchová stuck behind the baseline as she succumbed to multiple unforced errors due to the pressure.
However, the Czech athlete was able to make a comeback in the game despite a sluggish beginning. She displayed her strength and exceptional decision making skills, which have led her to the final. She even managed to create a break-back point, but eventually Świątek held on after several deuces, securing a 4-1 lead.
At that point, the harm had already occurred and Świątek quickly finished the set.
At first, the second set followed a similar pattern as Świątek quickly gained a lead. Muchova made some attempts to catch up, but was unable to win the crucial points. However, she was ultimately able to break Świątek’s serve and secure a hold.
All of a sudden, the score was tied at 3-3. Muchová had won three games in a row, causing a shift in momentum. The pressure was evident when Muchová broke Świątek’s serve in the next game, giving her a 5-4 lead in the second set and setting up a chance to serve for the deciding set.
Świątek prevented the opportunity, but Muchová created another chance and successfully scored the third set point, resulting in an unexpected third set. The third set was back and forth, but ultimately Świątek emerged victorious, claiming her fourth grand slam title. She now joins an elite group of only three female players to win their first four major finals.
Source: cnn.com
