"I wasn't expecting honestly to win this match": Iga Swiatek’s honest take after beating Jasmine Paolini to reach first grass final
WTA
Iga Swiatek was elated after defeating Jasmine Paolini in the Bad Homburg Open semifinals, a match she admitted she didn't expect to win. The five-time Grand Slam champion swept past Paolini in the semifinals, advancing to her first-ever final on grass courts.
The world No. 1 is having a remarkable week, which she could crown with a title – a potential boost after a complicated year. Swiatek snapped a six-match losing streak in semifinals, doing so at an exceptionally high level against the 2024 Wimbledon finalist.
"I wasn't expecting honestly to win this match," Swiatek confessed after her 6-1, 6-3 victory this Friday afternoon. "I'm just happy that I did my job. I knew what I wanted to play and I just go for it, and I'm happy that I kept the momentum going until the end of the game, because she’s a fighter, you know?"
The Polish star maintains an impeccable 5-0 head-to-head record against Paolini, including their 2024 Roland Garros final, where Swiatek last secured a title. However, this was their first encounter on grass courts.
Regarding the surface change, the former world No. 1 acknowledged that she adjusted her game plan to challenge Paolini effectively. "The tactics are different on every surface, so I don't know, but I think we're both pretty intense. I kind of understand how she wants to play because I also have a big topspin with my forehand and I like to step in with my backhand," she explained.
"I guess we kind of get each other’s game and try to use it and for sure I knew that she might go to the net today, but I tried not to let her do that. I just kept her on the baseline and that’s where I wanted to lead, so I’m happy that I did that."
Swiatek has advanced to the Bad Homburg Open final, where she awaits the winner of the second semifinal between Jessica Pegula and Linda Noskova.
"I wasn't expecting honestly to win this match" 😅
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) June 27, 2025
Iga Swiatek speaks after her scintillating semifinal win over Jasmine Paolini#BadHomburgOpen pic.twitter.com/1jaYnXSHpH
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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