Swiatek sweeps past Stephens in Dubai opener

World No.1 Iga Swiatek continued her winning streak in the Middle East with a 6-4, 6-4 victory over American Sloane Stephens at the Dubai Tennis Championships. After winning the Qatar Open title last week, Swiatek needed nearly 2 hours to secure her fifth consecutive win in the region this year.

Stephens started strong with an early break of serve, but Swiatek fought back to eventually take the first set. The second set was a close battle, with both players holding serve until Swiatek stepped up to secure a 6-4, 6-4 victory.

Swiatek’s next challenge will be facing two-time Dubai champion and No.15 seed Elina Svitolina in the last 16.

The win marks Swiatek’s impressive form and sets the stage for an exciting matchup in the upcoming rounds at the Dubai Tennis Championships.