"We know each other's game": Iga Swiatek ready for Emma Raducanu challenge at Roland Garros
WTAMonday, 26 May 2025 at 18:37
Iga Swiatek is already anticipating a big match against Emma Raducanu in the second round of Roland Garros, after starting her French Open title defense with a dominant win. The world No. 5 defeated Rebecca Sramkova 6-3, 6-3 and advanced to the second round of the tournament.
Despite recent questions about her level, the Pole remains – along with Aryna Sabalenka – a top favorite for the title. With four crowns at Philippe Chatrier, the "Queen of Clay" showcased her class in her opening match, being consistent with her serve, winning 70% of first serve points and 67% with the second.
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A potential clash with former US Open champion Emma Raducanu was anticipated as soon as the draw was revealed. The Brit fulfilled her responsibility with a hard-fought victory over Xinyu Wang, and now faces the difficult task of trying to break Swiatek's 22-match winning streak at Roland Garros.
A match between Grand Slam champions so early in a tournament always draws attention, especially when it involves Swiatek at her favorite event. However, Swiatek is not overconfident facing Raducanu. "Well, you know, everybody has a different path and different changes. But for sure she's a great player and has a great forehand. She can use her topspin pretty well," Swiatek said.
"So, we already played a couple of times, and we know each other's game. For sure I will need to be intense and focus on myself. She won the US Open. She can play great tennis, and I'll be ready."
With four previous encounters, Swiatek has never had too much trouble against Raducanu, winning all eight sets played. Their last victory – earlier this year at the Australian Open – was particularly convincing with a 6-1, 6-0 score. "I didn't really think about that match, honestly," Swiatek admitted.
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For Swiatek, their most notable duel was back in the Stuttgart quarterfinals in 2024, where Raducanu managed to take the first set to a tie-break, though it ultimately wasn't enough against the four-time Grand Slam champion. "I was thinking about our Stuttgart match. I don't really take a lot from that except the experience of knowing how she plays," she added.
"But Melbourne and Roland-Garros are totally different surfaces, different stories. I'll prepare tactically as I should before a clay court match, and that's it."
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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