The US Open 2024 has already become memorable for Iga Swiatek. The World No.1 won her 100th Grand Slam match during R4, in the presence of Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis. The Pole is riding high on success and positivity this season, as she marches into the quarterfinal clash against the home favorite, Jessica Pegula, with relative ease. Former Polish tennis pro, Wojciech Fibak, considers Swiatek the favorite to win the title to add to her wins at Roland Garros and the Olympics bronze medal.
Iga Swiatek has been one of the most consistent players in recent times. The World No. 1 has already claimed 5 Grand Slam titles, including the US Open 2022. And, after successfully getting past the initial challenges, she is anticipated to claim another title at the New York. According to Fibak’s words in Onet on September 3rd, Swiatek exudes the spirit of a “lioness,” ready to claim the prey, despite challenges.
Praising Swiatek’s game Fibak Sid, “Our Iga fights for every point like a lioness, even if something doesn’t go her way, even if she hits the ball with her frame.” Moreover, the former World No.10 thinks that Swiatek’s strong will to win makes her a role model for other tennis players in the circuit. He further remarked, “She gives everything to win. In this respect, her psyche is iron. She is a role model for all other tennis players.”
Moreover, Fibak feels that the US Open is Swiatek’s home, and in New York, the World No.1 would claim her 2nd US Open. “She won the US Open 2 years ago and I believe she will win this year. She will be the clear favorite,” the former pro added. In Swiatek’s road to the final though, stands Jessica Pegula whom the Pole will lock horns with in the QF.
It has been a long season for Iga Swiatek and the sports psychologist, Dariusz Nowicki, even gave the “iron psyche” a burn-out warning after her Olympics win. He said, “Iga is very overloaded, and sooner or later, hopefully as late as possible, she will experience burnout syndrome.” However, the Pole has continued her tremendous run on the court, with the support of her fans and family. Now, she focuses on answering Pegula’s challenge in the quarters!
Can Jessica Pegula restrain Iga Swiatek’s dream run at the US Open 2024?
Back in 2022, Pegula lost the US Open quarterfinals against Swiatek. Fast forward to 2024, and they meet again. However, things might be a bit different this time. When the past results are taken into account, Swiatek leads Pegula in H2H count with 6-3. However, when the 2023 results are taken into account, the score has been even. Both the players claimed two matches each, in an alternative order. Pegula might have found a way to restrain Swiatek!
According to Tennis Channel Live previews, Pegula needs to focus on her serve and her gameplay to reign in the World No.1. Pegula’s aggressive play would come in handy against Swiatek’s strong forehand grip. The opponents find it tricky to deal with the American tennis star because of her compact strokes, which stay low. But Pegula needs to get her first serve in, as Swiatek is lethal on second serves.
Though Iga Swiatek might be the favorite for some, Jessica Pegula can’t be written off. The Canadian Open champion is all set to tackle the challenges and claim her first Grand Slam title at home! This clash of the titans should be a cracking watch. Who do you think will win? Let us know in the comments below.
