Swiatek backs up Wimbledon title with Cincy success

Iga Swiatek gathered her forces on Monday to win her first title at the Cincinnati Masters 7-5, 6-4 over Jasmine Paolini before flying off before midnight to be ready for a Tuesday mixed doubles start at the US Open.

The six-time Grand Slam winner lifted her 11th title at the 1000 level, and stands just two shy of the all-time best of 13 from Serena Williams.

The baffling scheduling of the final on a Monday put a strain on the US Open mixed, which runs over Tuesday and Wednesday in New York and is turning into a Frankenstein scheduling experiment.

Swiatek seemed determined to make her match date with Casper Ruud.

The former world No. 1 who is ready for a rise back to second as Coco Gauff fades with serving problems, needed just under two hours to win.

The final had 16 break-point chances, with Swiatek converting six of 10 while also not dropping a set throughout the bloated 12-day event.

“It’s always tough in Cincy,” the first-time champion told the Tennis Channel.   “This gives me a boost of confidence. I’m happy with the work we’ve been doing. (The team) had to convince me to play in a different way

“I”m now happy with that process; it all feels even better after the match. I”m glad I finished in straight sets.”

Swiatek, with 24 career trophies, heads to the OPen with confidence high as she starts the bid for a second title there after winning in 2022.

Swiatek had stalled twice at the last two editions at the semi-final stage and now 

Italian Paolini, the 2024 Roland Garros and Wimbledon finalist, kept her trademark smile even in defeat.

“I’m happy with the level I put in this tournament. 
“Today, maybe I could, I could serve a little bit better, but still,it’s, it’s a positive tournament for me.

“I gave it all today, I did my best. 

“I could do better, yes, I could serve better. But I was there every point trying to come back, even in the bad situations. 

“I have also to see the positive things.”