United Cup 2025: Iga Swiatek seals Poland’s final spot after big win over Elena Rybakina

Iga Swiatek secured a major victory over Elena Rybakina, 7-6(5), 6-4, to send Poland into another United Cup final. The Polish star excelled in key moments, avenging her losses to the 2022 Wimbledon champion, who had won four of their previous five encounters.

In the day’s opening match, Hubert Hurkacz defeated Alexander Shevchenko 6-2, 6-3, giving Poland an early advantage. The European team now awaits the winner of the second semifinal between the Czech Republic and the United States, set to take place tomorrow.

Swiatek edges Rybakina in straight sets

The match was intense from the outset, with both players holding serve well early on. Both posted over 60% of points won on their first serves, but Swiatek was particularly aggressive on Rybakina's second serve, creating multiple problems for the Kazakh in the latter part of the set.

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The first break went to Rybakina, who capitalised on her first opportunity to lead 4-2. The "Ice Queen" had the chance to close the set on her serve at 5-4, but the world No. 2 rose to the occasion, breaking back after several chances to level the score. The set went to a tiebreak, where nerves were evident on both sides. The first eight points were mini-breaks, but Swiatek ultimately held her serve to clinch a challenging first set 7-6(5).

Both players elevated their level in the second set. Rybakina landed 72% of her first serves, while Swiatek hit an impressive 80%. The five-time Grand Slam champion earned multiple chances early in the set and finally broke in the fifth game. With strong service games, the Pole maintained her lead (saving a break point on the last game) and sealed the victory 7-6(5), 6-4, securing Poland’s second consecutive United Cup final. They will face the winner between the Czech Republic and the USA for the title.

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