Iga Świątek returned to the WTA Finals with a thrilling three-set victory over Barbora Krejcikova, showing grit and precision in her first match after a two-month break. The Polish star overcame a challenging start, losing the first set 4-6, before rallying back to capture the second set 7-5 and dominating the third 6-2.
Initially, Świątek struggled to find her rhythm, allowing Krejcikova to seize an early lead. Down 0-3 in the second set, Świątek’s chances seemed dim. However, she mounted an impressive comeback, levelling the score at 3-3 and maintaining her momentum to clinch the set. This turnaround ignited the crowd and seemed to revive her confidence.
In the decisive third set, Świątek was unstoppable. Her serves and returns were sharp as she surged to a 3-0 lead, leaving Krejcikova scrambling to keep up. Though the Czech player fought hard, Świątek’s powerful play closed out the match 6-2, marking a promising start in her bid for the WTA Finals title.
🇵🇱 ZNAKOMITY POWRÓT I PIERWSZY TRIUMF IGI ŚWIĄTEK W RIJADZIE! Polka wróciła ze stanu 4:6, 0:3* i pokonała Barborę Krejcikovą 4:6, 7:5, 6:2 w meczu otwierającym zmagania w grupie pomarańczowej na WTA Finals.
— Z kortu – informacje tenisowe | Tennis news (@z_kortu) November 3, 2024
📸 Jimmie48 | WTA | #WTAFinals | #WTAFinalsRiyadh | #czasnatenis
🇬🇧… pic.twitter.com/jcwMUR5ev5
Świątek’s victory not only signals her return to top form but also sets a high bar for the Orange Group. Her next match against Coco Gauff is scheduled for Tuesday.
Iga Świątek – Barbora Krejcikova 2-1 (4-6, 7-5, 6-2)