Polish tennis player Iga Świątek has advanced to the semifinals of the Paris Olympics after a dramatic victory over American Danielle Collins, who retired in the third set. The final score stood at 6-1, 2-6, 4-1 in favour of Świątek.
From the very beginning, Świątek showcased her confidence and skill, using her powerful forehand to dominate rallies, which earned her frequent applause from the audience. She quickly secured a 3-0 lead and maintained her service games with ease. Collins had a chance to break Świątek’s serve at 5-1 but couldn’t capitalize, allowing Świątek to clinch the first set.
The second set saw a determined Collins playing with increased aggression, hitting faster shots and serving more effectively. She surged to an early 3-0 lead. While Świątek managed to improve her game, she struggled against Collins’ strong serves. Collins had a set point in the eighth game, missed it, but converted the second to even the match at one set each.
The third set began with a controversial moment when Collins hit Świątek with a ball during an advantage play, bringing Świątek to tears. However, Świątek quickly recovered and broke Collins’ serve, which became the pivotal moment of the match. Świątek then won the next two games, aided by the fervent support of the Polish crowd. Facing health issues and mounting frustration, Collins retired from the match at 1-4, securing Świątek’s advancement to the semifinals.
Świątek will face Qinwen Zheng in the semifinals on Thursday, August 1.
🇵🇱 TAK, TAK, TAK! IGA ŚWIĄTEK W PÓŁFINALE IGRZYSK! Danielle Collins poddała spotkanie przy stanie 6:1, 2:6, 4:1 30-15 dla Polki. O gwarancję olimpijskiego medalu Iga zagra w czwartek z Qinwen Zheng.
— Z kortu – informacje tenisowe | Tennis news (@z_kortu) July 31, 2024
📸 Getty Images | #Olympics | #Paris2024 | #Tennis | #czasnatenis
🇬🇧 YES, YES,… pic.twitter.com/1p7MNp9haR
Iga Świątek – Danielle Collins 1-1 (6-1, 2-6, 4-1)