Iga Swiatek delivers another masterclass, dismantling Zheng Qinwen 6-3, 6-3 to advance to the Indian Wells semifinals. The Pole arrived with a flawless run, dropping just six games in her previous three matches, and capitalised on a lacklustre performance from the Chinese player.
However, Zheng had previously managed to upset Swiatek, doing so at the Olympic Games on her way to the gold medal, frustrating an almost unbeatable Swiatek on the Philippe Chatrier court at Roland Garros. The World No. 2 continues to improve her record in Tennis Paradise, now standing at 22-2 (92%).
First Set
Another commanding performance from Swiatek (No. 2) from start to finish. The match struggled to find rhythm in the opening games, with barely any rallies and the Pole quickly taking a 3-0 lead after winning 12 of the first 16 points. Zheng (No. 9) raised her level once she managed to hold serve for the first time, and the match started to feel a bit more competitive, though still lacking in long exchanges.
While Zheng gradually found her footing, Swiatek remained superior in most rallies, securing another break to go up 5-1. Zheng seemed to regain some confidence when she broke Swiatek — only the second time the Pole had been broken in the tournament.
However, it wasn’t much of a problem for the five-time Grand Slam champion, who calmly wrapped up the first set 6-3 with impeccable service games.
The Paris 2024 gold medallist managed just 43% on her first serve, winning 54% of those points, while Swiatek landed 59% of her first serves, winning 82% of them. Yet the difference wasn’t just in serving — Zheng appeared mentally disconnected for much of the set.
Second Set
Swiatek quickly took an early break in the second set. The former No. 1 reeled off 12 consecutive points, capitalising on Zheng’s unforced errors, and found herself up 4-0 in under 20 minutes. Zheng’s frustration was evident as she made uncharacteristic mistakes for a player of her calibre.
The World No. 9 showed flashes of brilliance at times, but the pattern remained: errors from her side and effortless control from Swiatek. Just like in the first set, Zheng held a service game that gave her some confidence and later earned three break points, but she was not able to capitalize her chances.
With the score at 1-5 and Zheng serving at 40-0, there was a brief interruption due to light rain for a couple of minutes. Upon returning, Swiatek seemed poised to quickly secure the victory, but Zheng showed a last bit of resistance, held her serve, and managed to get one last break — narrowing the score — but it wasn't enough, as she couldn't hold her serve, and a double fault from Zheng ended up giving the win to her rival.
Now in the semifinals, Swiatek awaits the winner between Elina Svitolina and Mirra Andreeva, both of whom have upset her in previous tournaments.
Match Statistics Zheng vs. Swiatek
| Zheng | VS | Swiatek |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 3 | Aces | 1 |
| 1 | Double Faults | 2 |
| 60% (33/55) | 1st Service Percentage | 67% (34/51) |
| 55% (18/33) | 1st Service Points Won | 76% (26/34) |
| 41% (9/22) | 2nd Service Points Won | 42% (8/19) |
| 0% (0/4) | Break Points Saved | 75% (3/4) |
| 50% (4/8) | Service Games | 88% (7/8) |
| Return | ||
| 24% (8/34) | 1st Return Points Won | 45% (15/33) |
| 58% (11/19) | 2nd Return Points Won | 59% (13/22) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 1h 38m | Match Duration | 1h 38m |
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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