Iga Świątek is playing for a spot in the WTA Rome final. If she beats Elina Svitolina, she will have the chance to win her first trophy in 2026.
Świątek Faces Svitolina in Rome Semi-Final
The match between Iga Świątek and Elina Svitolina got underway following a delay. Daniil Medvedev’s match against Martin Landaluce ran long, meaning Świątek and Svitolina appeared on the court later than planned. The players finally emerged after Medvedev defeated Landaluce.
Svitolina started the semi-final with a double fault. She then hit an ace. Świątek hit a backhand winner.
Svitolina took the lead early in the match. Świątek then put the ball into the net. Svitolina also found the net.
Early Exchanges Prove Tense
The Ukrainian player committed another double fault, the tenth seed’s first of the match. Świątek then held her serve. Svitolina hit a backhand into the corner for a winner. Świątek then missed a backhand.
Svitolina made multiple double service faults. Świątek had two chances to break back. Svitolina made another double fault.
Świątek was broken to love. The Ukrainian player capitalised with a return. Svitolina regained a narrow lead in the match. Świątek quickly recovered the break.
Medvedev’s Win Causes Delay
The semi-final started later than scheduled because of the preceding men’s quarter-final. Daniil Medvedev eventually overcame Martin Landaluce 1-6, 6-4, 7-5. Medvedev had three match points at 6-5 in the final set but failed to convert. Landaluce won the game. Earlier, at 5-4 in the third set, Medvedev had a match point at 40:30.
Landaluce was also broken. The score in the deciding set reached 3-3. The third set began with a break of Medvedev’s serve. Medvedev won the second set 6-4, meaning a third set was needed. Medvedev broke his opponent for the second time but Landaluce responded.
Play in Rome was briefly suspended due to rain. The match between Medvedev and Landaluce was interrupted.
Gauff Withdraws From Doubles
Coco Gauff has withdrawn from the doubles tournament. This is to allow her to better prepare for the singles final.
With the match underway, all eyes are now on Iga Świątek as she vies for a place in the final and the chance to capture her first title of 2026.