In a thrilling second-round clash at the Australian Open, world number one Iga Swiatek displayed resilience and determination to overcome Danielle Collins. Swiatek battled back from two breaks down in the final set, eventually defeating Collins 6-4, 3-6, 6-4. This victory marks Swiatek’s fifth consecutive appearance in the third round of the Australian Open.
Despite being ranked 62nd in the world, Collins had previously beaten Swiatek in the semi-finals two years ago at Melbourne Park. Swiatek, a four-time Grand Slam champion, is known for her excellent record against lower-ranked players. However, the match against Collins proved to be a dramatic and scrappy three-hour contest on Rod Laver Arena.
Collins initially took a 3-1 lead in the opening set, but Swiatek quickly responded with a love break. The match was tied at 3-3 when a half-hour rain delay prompted the closure of the roof. After the resumption, Swiatek showed resilience, winning four straight games to secure the first set and take a break lead in the second.
However, Collins rallied, increasing the pace of her groundstrokes to claim five consecutive games and serve for the second set. Swiatek faced challenges, saving multiple set points, but Collins eventually leveled the contest, winning the second set after more than two hours of play.
In the deciding set, Collins took a 4-1 lead with two breaks, but Swiatek fought back. Despite saving two match points in the final game, Swiatek capitalized on a Collins dropshot, delivering a powerful backhand down the line to seal the victory.
Swiatek, expressing her relief after the challenging match, said, “I wanted to fight until the end, she played perfectly, but it would be hard for anybody to keep that level, so I wanted to be ready when mistakes were going to come from the other side.”
Collins, acknowledging the tough battle, announced her retirement plans, stating, “I lost 6-4 in the third to one of the best players in the world, and she played some great tennis. Left it all on the court… This will be my last season, and I’m really looking forward to that.”
Swiatek advances to the third round, where she will face Czech player Linda Noskova.
