Iga Swiatek battled past
Beatriz Haddad Maia in the semifinals of the 2023
French Open, winning 6-2, 7-6.
The World No. 1 had a strong start in the first set. Both players secured a break in the first two games of the match, but from there, Swiatek took control. The Polish player had a low first-serve percentage at just 55%, but after the first game, she didn't have to face any more break points against her, while she won all three that she had in her favor.
The second set was a real battle in which Haddad Maia showcased her best level to compete with Swiatek. The Brazilian had a 3-1 advantage and several break points in her favor at 4-4, making things more difficult for Swiatek than what is usually seen in her matches. Swiatek saved five break points that had her on the edge of a potential third set, while she capitalized on the sole break opportunity she had.
Haddad Maia entered the tie-break with an incredible record throughout the season, winning all eight she played in 2023, with a 100% success rate, only surpassed by Rybakina who has a perfect nine out of nine for the season. The World No. 1 fought off a set point from the Brazilian and secured the victory in two sets.
Despite the Brazilian's fighting spirit, the two-time French Open champion came out on top with a score of 6-2, 7-6(7). This is the best result that 'Bia' has achieved in a Grand Slam throughout her career and guarantees her entry into the top 10 of the world rankings for the first time.
In the final, Swiatek will face the impressive Karolina Muchova, who earlier defeated Aryna Sabalenka and will play her first Grand Slam final. The Polish player will face the pressure in the final, as she is the clear favorite to win her third French Open title.