Iga Swiatek put down a marker for 2024 because the world primary thumped Beatriz Haddad Maia 6-2 6-2 within the United Cup blended workforce event on Saturday earlier than Hubert Hurkacz handed Poland an unassailable 2-0 lead towards Brazil.
Swiatek ended final season with 11 straight wins to elevate the China Open and WTA Finals trophies and reclaim the highest spot from Aryna Sabalenka, and she or he confirmed no indicators of rust towards Haddad Maia in a rematch of their French Open semi-final.
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The 22-year-old cruised by way of the opening set in sometimes dominant type and went up 4-1 within the subsequent after an early wobble on serve, earlier than ending WTA Elite Trophy champion Haddad Maia’s seven-match profitable streak.
Swiatek mentioned she hoped to be stronger within the new yr after having fun with essentially the most “peaceable” low season in a very long time.
“In 2020 I received my first slam so it was all fairly hectic. I wasn’t specializing in tennis and the best issues. I wanted to get again on the best path,” Swiatek mentioned.
“After 2021 I modified coaches, so a special problem. Final yr I felt like the entire world was watching. I really feel like I’ve gotten used to this type of place. I may actually simply give attention to practising and resting.”
Hurkacz handed Brazil their second defeat in Group A of the $10 million event that includes 18 international locations when he defeated Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-7(4) 6-2 6-3.