Swiatek Conquers Cincinnati: First Title and 24th of Her Career

Iga Swiatek Conquers the Cincinnati Open

The world number three, Iga Swiatek, won the Cincinnati Open title for the first time in her career, after defeating Jasmine Paolini in the final held on Monday night. The match ended with a score of 7-5 and 6-4. Swiatek had struggled in this tournament, failing to advance beyond the semifinals in her previous six appearances. In the last two editions, she reached the semifinals, but was eliminated by Coco Gauff in 2023 and Aryna Sabalenka in 2024.

It means a lot to me. I really wanted to win this year. I am very happy. It’s good to tick off another tournament that I hadn’t won. I have friends here. It’s a nice and relaxed tournament before New York.

Iga Swiatek

Swiatek maintains a flawless record against the Italian, having won all six previous encounters and losing only one set in total. Paolini started with an advantage, leading 3-0 in the first set, but Swiatek reacted to take the lead 5-3. Paolini tied the score at 5-5, but Swiatek secured the victory of the first set in 56 minutes. With her eighth ace, Swiatek went up 5-3 in the second set. Paolini managed to break serve twice, getting close to 5-4, but Swiatek closed out the match to earn her 24th singles title and the eleventh in a WTA 1000 event. With this victory, Swiatek broke the tie with Victoria Azarenka (10) and positioned herself as the second player with the most 1000-level titles since this category was introduced in 2009 (Serena Williams, 13).

This season has not been easy. I had areas to improve. It’s not easy to win tournaments when everyone expects you to.

Iga Swiatek

Swiatek committed seven double faults, compared to Paolini’s two. However, she achieved nine aces, while Paolini made none.

When the exchanges were developing, I felt good on the court. The serves made the difference. When she needed an ace, she got it.

Jasmine Paolini

Iga Swiatek celebrates her victory at the Cincinnati Open.Paolini became the first Italian woman to reach the final in Cincinnati. Since participating in the Cincinnati Open as a qualifier in 2023, Paolini has reached two Grand Slam singles finals, won a Grand Slam doubles title, and an Olympic gold medal.

It was definitely a positive tournament for me. Of course, it wasn’t enough. I just need to improve.

Jasmine Paolini

The Cincinnati Open serves as preparation for the US Open, which will begin on Sunday in New York. In the last two years, the Cincinnati Open champions, in both the men’s and women’s divisions, have won the final Grand Slam tournament of the year. Carlos Alcaraz won the men’s final on the same day, after Jannik Sinner withdrew due to illness during the first set.