Iga Świątek, the top-ranked player in the world, easily defeated Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan in straight sets with a score of 6-0 6-1 and advanced to the fourth round of the US Open in just 49 minutes.
Juvan only managed to win 15 points throughout the entire match, making it one of the most lopsided grand slam matches in recent memory. Świątek, showing her dominance, easily defeated Juvan and remains the top contender for the Flushing Meadows title.
Świątek has given up just nine games in her three matches so far in New York – seven of those coming in the comparatively difficult match against Daria Saville in the second round – with even her close friend Juvan not immune to being served up a bagel, the 20th of the year for the relentless Świątek.
Świątek and Juvan have been close since playing together as teenagers at the junior level, but there was no time for sentiment as the Pole got straight to business.
In just 24 minutes, she had won the first set and quickly took a 3-0 lead in the second set. However, Juvan managed to win her only game of the match.
The audience in Louis Armstrong Stadium showed their appreciation for the Slovenian player with a round of applause when she scored 3-1. However, it didn’t take long for Świątek to close out the match.
“I was not fond of the fact that I was succeeding against my closest friend, but I understood the importance of staying focused and not dwelling on it because it felt like competing against a sister. We have been acquainted for a significant amount of time,” Świątek stated following her victory.
“I have few companions, but she is my closest confidant. That was the most challenging aspect.”
Świątek appears nearly invincible as she strives to retain her US Open championship, with only five unforced errors in her flawless performance on Friday. She will compete against either Jelena Ostapenko or American Bernarda Pera for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Currently, the first-ranked player is adjusting to her own exceptional skills.
“In all honesty, I need to learn how to find more pleasure in that,” she stated.
Last week, I discussed this matter with Roger [Federer]. He believes the most effective approach is to fully embrace it and take pride and joy in your achievements.
“I am constantly focused on the future, striving to improve each day. I am grateful to have teammates who remind me of the value of my hard work. It is important to recognize and appreciate both the journey and the growth.”
Source: cnn.com
