Collins Ousts Defending Champion Swiatek to Reach Rome Round of 16

This early afternoon, Iga Swiatek faced Danielle Collins in the third round of the WTA 1000 in Rome. The Polish world No. 2 had regained confidence after her crushing semifinal defeat in Madrid against Coco Gauff (6-1, 6-1).

Making her debut in the Eternal City, Swiatek had dominated Elisabetta Cocciaretto (6-1, 6-0) and hoped to confirm her form against the American. Ranked down to No. 35, Collins has had a modest start to the season, but what better way to bounce back than a match against Swiatek, a clay-court specialist?

After a high-quality performance, the 31-year-old neutralized her opponent’s game to secure victory (6-1, 7-5 in 1 hour and 43 minutes). Ineffective on break points (2 out of 10 converted), the Pole struggled on serve and couldn’t capitalize enough on her opportunities (61% of points won behind her first serve).

Collins defeats Swiatek for the second time in nine meetings and advances to the round of 16, where she will face either Elina Svitolina or Hailey Baptiste.

As for Swiatek, she loses her crown after being crowned champion in Italy last year. The Polish player, who continues to struggle with doubts, temporarily drops to No. 4 in the WTA rankings, with Coco Gauff (No. 2) and Jessica Pegula (No. 3) moving ahead.