Defending champion Iga Swiatek avoided a second loss to Alexandra Eala in a WTA 1000 event in as many months with a three-set comeback at the Mutua Madrid Open on Thursday, coming from a set and a break down to top the teenager from the Philippines, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.
Swiatek lost in a surprising straight sets to Eala in the quarterfinals in Miami, and in Madrid, she looked on course for another stunner as she fell behind a set and a break, 6-4, 3-2. But this time, the World No. 2 steadied, and won five consecutive games from 4-4 in the second set before finishing off the comeback in 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Swiatek after beating Alexandra Eala in Madrid;
“How special is it to be back on court as defending champion?
Iga: “I always love playing here. For sure I’m just proud of my performances the last two years. It’s great to come back and have this experience. The conditions are different than last year. I think it’s like 10 degrees hotter. So I feel like the game is gonna be a bit different. But I’m just happy to be here and happy to enjoy Madrid.”
“Talking about the conditions.. What is it in your game that you enjoy using most in Madrid?”
Iga: “I feel like my topspin will work here. And I feel like the courts are pretty fast. It’s not like classic clay where the ball bounce is super slow. I think you need to be smart with tactics. Sometimes play with spin.. sometimes a bit more flat to keep the ball going fast. I’m gonna try to balance that in the next matches. I’m happy I’m gonna be able to play in front of you guys more.”
“We always play amazing matches. Hopefully this one is also gonna be enjoyable and good entertainment. I’m gonna just focus on my performance. Kinda is a great player and I have huge respect for her. So we’ll see.” Iga Swiatek concludes on facing Linda Noskova next in Madrid.
© Copyrights Sixsports. All Rights Reserved.