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What a match it was! After such a long break, it was clear that the match was very demanding for Iga Swiatek. After losing the first set, however, Iga managed to beat the Czech and advance to the semi-finals.
The first set definitely did not go Swiatek’s way. Iga managed to come from 0-4 down to level the score, but it was Pliskova who dictated the conditions. After less than 50 minutes, Iga lost the set 4-6.
The second set started much more optimistically. Swiatek broke the Czech early on and went into the lead. She played quite nervously, but you could see that she was very focused. With the score 4-0 for Iga, Pliskova managed to break the World No.1 and win a game. However, it was the only game won for her. Iga won the entire set 6-1 in beautiful style.
The third set was a show of power from both players. From the very beginning, both players went head to head. It was apparent that Iga was having a lot of trouble breaking the Czech. She started to make a lot of mistakes and play quite nervously. The fight was incredibly fierce until the very end. Iga clearly couldn’t find a way against the Czech player, but she eventually won the third set 6-2.
The winner will face Ons Jabeur tomorrow, Saturday, who defeated Beatriz Haddad Maia 6-3, 6-0.
Iga Świątek – Karolina Pliskova 1-2 (4-6, 6-1, 6-2)