Swiatek triumphs over Cirstea in Seoul: A controlled victory that sets the tone

In her first match since the US Open, Iga Swiatek demonstrated that she was ready to take on new challenges by defeating Sorana Cirstea in straight sets. Despite the Romanian's resistance, Swiatek managed to master the situation.

Iga Swiatek made a successful return. The Pole, who hadn't played since her quarterfinal defeat at the US Open to Amanda Anisimova, made her debut at the WTA 500 tournament in Seoul in the round of 16 against Sorana Cirstea.

The Romanian didn't waste any time in her first match against Anastasia Zakharova (6-3, 6-1), thereby earning the right to face Swiatek, the world No. 2, for a spot in the quarters.

Cirstea, ranked 66th in the world, had never beaten Swiatek in five previous encounters, only winning a single set during that time. And things didn't improve today, as Swiatek, in control, won in two sets (6-3, 6-2 in 1h32).

Despite everything, the score doesn't fully reflect the dynamics, as Cirstea hung on in the first set, breaking twice and pushing the Pole in quite a few games. It took Swiatek 50 minutes to take the lead.

The second set was more controlled by Swiatek, who saved the three break points she faced before accelerating and claiming victory. The Pole thus qualifies for the quarterfinals, where she will meet the winner of the match between Emma Raducanu and Barbora Krejcikova.

This marks Swiatek's 54th victory of the season (and the 19th in her last 21 matches), as she aims for a third title this year following her previous victories at Wimbledon and Cincinnati.