Swiatek leads Poland to United Cup semi-finals with gritty win over Britain

Iga Swiatek showcased resilience and determination as she led Poland into the United Cup semi-finals with a dramatic victory over Britain on Thursday in Sydney. Poland, last year’s runners-up, secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in their quarter-final tie and will face Kazakhstan in the next round.

The world number two and five-time Grand Slam champion battled past Britain’s Katie Boulter 6-7 (4/7), 6-1, 6-4 in nearly three hours. Swiatek, who required a medical timeout during the deciding set and played with a strapped thigh, demonstrated her tenacity to win her third singles match of the tournament.

“This match was crazy, so many changes in momentum,” Swiatek said after the match. “I am just exhausted. I took four painkillers—a lot hurt—but I’m happy we won.”

Despite losing a tight first set, Swiatek stormed back in the second and held her nerve in the final set, clinching victory on her first match point after Boulter netted a return.

Earlier in the day, Poland’s Hubert Hurkacz, ranked 16th in the world, overcame Billy Harris 7-6 (7/3), 7-5 to give Poland a strong start. Hurkacz, who had struggled with form at the start of the season, delivered a much-needed win against an opponent ranked 109 places below him.

“Super-pleased with myself,” Hurkacz said. “Today was a really difficult battle with Billy. This win is crucial for me to build confidence and get another match in.”

Poland now prepares to face Kazakhstan, led by world number six Elena Rybakina, who knocked out reigning champions Germany on Wednesday.

In other United Cup action, Italy will take on the Czech Republic on Friday, with the winner set to face the United States in the semi-finals.

The Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year, begins on January 12 in Melbourne.

(Source: AFP)