Iga Swiatek powered into her first-ever Wimbledon final, delivering a stunning performance to sweep aside Belinda Bencic.
A Dominant Display
Iga Swiatek made history by reaching her first Wimbledon final, showcasing an incredible performance on Thursday. The former world number one delivered a quick and decisive 6-2, 6-0 victory over Belinda Bencic.
This dominant win sets her up for a highly anticipated final against American Amanda Anisimova, who had earlier upset world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
Conquering the Grass Court
Swiatek, renowned as a clay court specialist and multiple French Open champion, had never advanced past the quarter-finals at the All England Club before this year. Her journey to the final marks a significant milestone, as she candidly admitted her past struggles with grass court tennis.
“Honestly, I never even dreamt that it was going to be possible for me to play in the final,” a beaming Swiatek shared after her victory. “I’m just super excited and proud of myself.”
A New Level of Play
The 24-year-old expressed her surprise and joy at her improved performance on grass. “Tennis keeps surprising me,” she said. “I thought I lived through everything even though I’m young. I didn’t experience playing well on grass, so that’s the first time and I’m super excited and enjoying it.”
This newfound comfort is evident, building on her impressive run to the final at the grass court warm-up event in Bad Homburg.
Unstoppable Intensity
Against Bencic, Swiatek’s intensity was off the charts. Her focus, sharp movement, and unwavering determination were a sight to behold. Every part of her game, from her relentless serve to her powerful forehands and backhands, seemed to be operating at its peak.
Swiatek fired off 26 winners in total, showcasing her overwhelming offensive power. Her every muscle fibre seemed to be twitching with eagerness to get the job done.
The Match Unfolds
Bencic, ranked 35th and returning from a maternity break last October, played well but simply couldn’t match Swiatek’s pace. Swiatek secured two breaks in the first set, closing it out swiftly at 5-2 when Bencic netted a backhand.
In the second set, Bencic earned two early break points, but Swiatek saved both, then broke the Swiss in the very next game. Swiatek continued to apply immense pressure, breaking Bencic for a 4-0 lead with a punishing forehand return.
She wasted no time in finishing the match, securing the victory on a backhand return winner after her first match point. For Bencic, who visualises her game plan, this must have felt like a “terrible nightmare.”
- Iga Swiatek reached her first Wimbledon final.
- She defeated Belinda Bencic 6-2, 6-0 in a dominant display.
- Swiatek has overcome her previous struggles on grass courts.
Swiatek’s remarkable journey on grass culminates in a thrilling final appearance. Her confidence and powerful game will undoubtedly make her a formidable opponent as she vies for the Wimbledon title.
