World No. 4 Iga Swiatek delivered another commanding performance at the Italian Open, crushing American fifth seed Jessica Pegula 6-1, 6-2 to book her place in the semi-finals and continue her resurgence on clay.
The four-time French Open champion needed just over an hour to dismantle Pegula in Rome, extending her impressive form after previously dropping only three games against Naomi Osaka in the fourth round. (bbc.com)
Swiatek Rediscovering Her Best Form on Clay
Swiatek’s latest display highlighted signs that the Polish star is regaining the ruthless consistency that once made her nearly unbeatable on clay courts.
After a difficult 2025 clay season and tactical adjustments under former coach Wim Fissette, Swiatek recently brought in Rafael Nadal’s former coach Francisco Roig to help rebuild her confidence and restore her natural game style.
The changes appear to be paying off rapidly. Swiatek looked aggressive yet controlled against Pegula, combining deep returns, relentless baseline pressure, and improved patience during rallies. (bbc.com)
French Open Rivals Put on Alert
The 24-year-old’s dominant performances in Rome are strengthening her status as one of the favourites heading into the French Open later this month.
Swiatek, often referred to as the “Queen of Clay,” has won four Roland Garros titles between 2020 and 2024 and remains one of the most dangerous players on the surface despite last season’s dip in form. (wtatennis.com)
Her semi-final opponent will be either Elena Rybakina or Elina Svitolina as the battle for the Rome title intensifies.
Injury Concerns Hit Men’s Draw
Meanwhile, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti has withdrawn from the French Open due to a thigh injury suffered during the tournament in Rome.
The injury setback adds Musetti to a growing list of concerns ahead of Roland Garros, with defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and Britain’s Jack Draper also dealing with physical issues.
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