Key Highlights
- Iga Swiatek advances to quarterfinals with a three-set win over Daria Kasatkina.
- Sakkari awaits Swiatek in the quarterfinals after defeating Gracheva.
- Swiatek has won their last four meetings against Sakkari, all in straight sets.
The Battle for Doha: Swiatek’s Comeback and Future Challenges
It wasn’t an easy match. Swiatek had to work hard against Kasatkina, who rallied strongly in the first set but couldn’t hold off the Pole’s relentless pressure later on.
Swiatek converted 44.4% of break points and won only two games in the second set after a strong comeback by Kasatkina. The Australian struggled with her second serve, winning just 24.1% of second-serve points.
The Legacy at Doha
Swiatek’s journey to the quarterfinals is nothing new. She has won the title in Doha three consecutive years from 2022-2024, and this year marks her fifth appearance in the round of sixteen.
The Pole has faced former world No. 3 Maria Sakkari next, who defeated Gracheva with ease to secure a place in the last eight. Sakkari has now won three consecutive main-draw matches for the first time since reaching the round of 16 in Madrid last year and on hard court since the Indian Wells final two years ago.
Swiatek’s Mastery Over Sakkari
Sakkari, a former world No. 8, is no pushover but Swiatek has dominated their recent encounters. She believes her improved level in 2022 allowed for more variety and better performance against tough opponents.
“I think I gave her more chances,” Swiatek admitted to the press. “She used the slower surface here and was going for it more, compared to last matches.” Sakkari echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that every game with Swiatek is a challenge.
The Quarterfinals: A Test of Mettle
Swiatek will face off against Sakkari in the quarterfinals. “It’s always tough,” she noted. “Against Maria, it’s every point matters.” The former world No. 3 has won their last four meetings all in straight sets, including a commanding victory here last year.
With Swiatek’s experience and Sakkari’s growing confidence, this match promises to be another tight battle. Who will come out on top? Only time—and the tennis court—will tell.
Final Thoughts
The journey to the quarterfinals isn’t always easy, but for Swiatek, it continues. The Doha Open remains a proving ground where she can showcase her skills and push herself against tough competition.