World No. 1 Iga Swiatek staged a dramatic comeback to defeat Elena Rybakina 1-6, 6-3, 7-5 on Sunday, securing her spot in the French Open quarterfinals and reigniting hopes of a fourth consecutive Roland-Garros crown.
Trailing by a set and 2-0, Swiatek overcame a shaky start—marked by poor serving and relentless pressure from Rybakina—to turn the match around with improved tactics and mental resilience. Adjusting her serve, increasing topspin, and staying patient in long rallies, she gradually took control of the match, ultimately breaking at 6-5 in the third set to seal the win.
The hard-fought victory not only marks Swiatek’s first final-eight appearance since last year’s Roland-Garros title but could also signal a turning point in a season where she has struggled for consistency. Her comeback against an in-form Rybakina, who had beaten her in both previous clay-court meetings, may help restore her aura as the tournament favorite.
Swiatek will next face Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals as she continues her pursuit of a fifth Grand Slam title.
