Iga Swiatek carried her Wuhan Open momentum from the player party to Centre Court on Tuesday, defeating fellow Pole Magdalena Frech 6-2, 6-1 to reach the third round for a second consecutive season.
Swiatek through despite a demanding opening test
The world No. 9 produced a one-sided scoreline in the Dongfeng Voyah Wuhan Open draw, but said the match required more work than the final result suggested. Swiatek recorded 21 unforced errors and four double faults, yet repeatedly created openings on return against Frech.
- Swiatek converted six of her 16 break-point opportunities.
- She defended seven of the nine break points she faced.
- The victory was her 40th match win of the season.
- It put her into the Wuhan third round for the second year running.
“I was pleased to have my first match on Centre Court because I had not had the opportunity to play there before,” Swiatek said. “I was happy that I began making fewer mistakes and took my chances through to the end. It was definitely tougher than the score indicates.”
Krueger awaits in the last 16
Swiatek will meet American Ashlyn Krueger on Thursday with a quarter-final place at stake. Krueger recovered from a set down to beat Lanlana Tararudee 2-6, 6-1, 6-1.
The contest will be the first WTA Tour meeting between Swiatek and Krueger.
Red choice for Wuhan player party
Before the tournament began, Swiatek joined other WTA players at the Wuhan player party, where her red dress attracted attention. After her win over Frech, she said she had selected the outfit herself rather than receiving guidance from organisers.
“We do not get suggestions or recommendations about outfits, so I chose it myself,” Swiatek said. “I tried it on at home because I wanted to make sure I had suitable looks for these player parties. I know they are always held in China, and I wanted to be prepared.”
Swiatek said she had recently tended to wear black because it was the easier option, but wanted a brighter colour in Wuhan. “Red suits me, so I felt confident wearing it,” she said. “I am happy with the choice.”
