Iga Swiatek
emerges victorious in a tough challenge against Danielle Collins in the second round of the 2024 Australian Open, winning 6-4, 3-6, 6-4. It was undoubtedly a
challenging draw for the Polish player, who, despite being the first seed,
faced the 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin (No. 41) in the first round
and defeated her 7-6(2), 6-2. In the second round, her opponent was the 2022
Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins (No. 68).
In the
first round, she overcame the 3-times Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber, the
AO champion in 2016, who returned to the tour two weeks ago after a break for
pregnancy. The American secured the victory with a score of 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 and
set up the 6th encounter against Swiatek (with the Polish player leading 4-1).
In the
first set, both players saved break points in their opening service games.
Collins secured the first break of the match in the fourth game to take a 3-1
lead, but she couldn't hold her service in the next game, and the world No. 1
leveled the match at 3-3. While Collins was serving at 3-3, 15-15, rain
started, leading to a brief pause to dry the court and close the roof.
Upon
resumption, Collins faced difficulties in holding her service, but the break
was not decisive. Both players entered a high level, and Swiatek also defended
her service. With the score at 4-4, Collins gave her opponent another chance,
and the 4-times Grand Slam champion didn't hesitate to secure the break and win
the first set 6-4.
Swiatek got
an early break in the second set and seemed poised to maintain the advantage
against the American, who was facing a challenging moment. However, the former
world No. 7 persisted, taking more risks for winners, resulting in an
incredible comeback where she won five consecutive games, including three
breaks against the world No. 1, leading the American 5-1. Collins conceded her
service once and wasted five set points before eventually claiming the set 6-3.
The third
set was a battle with both players engaged in prolonged, contested games.
Swiatek defended her first service game, but Collins continued with a good
feeling, winning the next four games consecutively and taking a 4-1 lead with
two breaks. The world No. 1 showcased the best of her tennis, responding with
another five consecutive game wins, including three breaks, to close the match
6-4, 3-6, 6-4.
The 4-times
Grand Slam champion extended her winning streak to 18, considering the China
Open, WTA Finals, United Cup, and now the Australian Open. The Polish player
also reached the third round in all 14 Grand Slams played this decade so far, a
unique achievement among both male and female players.
In the
third round, she will face Linda Noskova (No. 50), a rising 17-year-old star
who eliminated the 31st seed Marie Bouzkova in the first round with a score of
6-1, 7-5, and secured another victory against McCartney Kessler (No. 206) with
a score of 6-3, 1-6, 6-4.
The young
Czech reached the semifinals of the WTA 500 Brisbane Open last week, including
victories over the 10th seed Sorana Cirstea and the 16-year-old young star
Mirra Andreeva.
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.
Swiatek d. Collins 6-4 3-6 6-4
Iga was down 2-4, 0-40 in the 3rd set.
She was also dealing with a leg injury.
When you back the world #1 into a corner, you unleash a completely different kind of beast.
✅18 match win streak
✅7-0 in 2024
And counting. 🇵🇱❤️