Iga Swiatek Sends French Open Warning With Dominant Italian Open Victory

Posted : 14 May 2026

Four-time French Open winner Iga Swiatek continued her impressive return to form on clay after securing a dominant straight-sets victory over Jessica Pegula to advance to the semi-finals of the Italian Open. The Polish star needed just over an hour to complete a commanding 6-1, 6-2 win in Rome.

Swiatek’s latest performance followed another emphatic display in the previous round, where she dropped only three games against former world number one Naomi Osaka. Her convincing victories have highlighted a clear improvement in confidence and consistency ahead of the French Open.

The 24-year-old has recently started working with coach Francisco Roig, who previously coached Rafael Nadal. Swiatek has also spent time practising with Nadal and seeking guidance from the 22-time Grand Slam champion as she aims to rediscover the level that earned her the nickname “Queen of Clay.”

Swiatek admitted the adjustments made in recent weeks have boosted her confidence on court. Her aggressive but controlled performance against Pegula showcased greater patience and stability in rallies, allowing her to force errors from the American fifth seed throughout the match.

After dominating clay courts between 2020 and 2024 with four French Open titles and multiple WTA trophies, Swiatek struggled to maintain the same dominance last season. A change in playing style under former coach Wim Fissette affected her rhythm and confidence, particularly when matches became difficult.

Under Roig’s guidance, Swiatek appears to have returned to a more disciplined and relentless approach from the baseline. Her deep returning and pressure on Pegula’s second serve proved especially effective as she maintained her intensity from start to finish.

Swiatek will next face Elina Svitolina in the semi-finals after the Ukrainian battled back to defeat Elena Rybakina in three sets. With her recent performances, Swiatek is once again emerging as one of the leading favourites for the upcoming French Open.

Elsewhere in the Italian Open, Casper Ruud progressed to the men’s semi-finals after defeating Karen Khachanov in three sets. Ruud will now play either Luciano Darderi or Rafael Jodar for a place in the final.

Meanwhile, Lorenzo Musetti has withdrawn from the French Open due to a thigh injury sustained in Rome. The Italian joins defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and Britain’s Jack Draper among the notable players currently sidelined through injury.

Iga Swiatek Sends French Open Warning With Dominant Italian Open Victory

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