Iga Świątek, a three-time champion in Rome, is looking to find her form. Her first opportunity to test herself was in the second round against Caty McNally. The American, currently ranked 63rd in the world, has had a successful tournament in Madrid.
McNally Draws First Blood
McNally and Świątek have met three times, including junior competitions where McNally secured her only win against Świątek. McNally could not be underestimated, especially after her Madrid performance where she defeated Victoria Mboko and Katerina Siniakova. McNally started strong, breaking Świątek in the first game with a well-executed slice.
Świątek struggled initially, hitting two forehands into the net. However, Świątek quickly retaliated. A perfect backhand and a cross-court forehand helped her break back in the second game.
Świątek then won her service game without dropping a point. Świątek continued her momentum, pushing McNally around the court.
Świątek Takes Control
Świątek increased the pressure on her opponent. Świątek secured another break to lead 3:1. Despite McNally’s efforts, she couldn’t match Świątek’s level. At 15:0, McNally approached the net with several slices, trying to outwit Świątek.
Świątek remained composed and passed her with a well-placed shot. Świątek moved to 4:1 after 20 minutes, displaying a relaxed demeanour. Quickly, it became 5:1, with Świątek securing another break. She wrapped up the first set 6:1, passing McNally at the net again.
McNally Pushes Back in Second Set
McNally started the second set with strong serves, troubling Świątek. Świątek unexpectedly lost her return game to love. It was important to hold serve, which proved challenging. The American hit her first winner at the net, and Świątek’s forehand was effective. McNally struggled with her backhand, which Świątek targeted. This gave Świątek a break for 2:1 without losing a point.
The tennis player from the USA responded with a good volley at 30:15. However, she soon lost the advantage, hitting the net while trying to find a winner down the line. Iga did not hesitate to extinguish her with a phenomenal cross-court shot and scored a co