Swiatek gets revenge

Iga Swiatek responded with authority after her surprising defeat last month to young Filipino Alexandra Eala, defeating her 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 yesterday in the second round of the Madrid Open.

The world number two, defending champion in the Spanish capital, showed her composure on the clay of the Caja Mágica. “On clay, I feel like I have more of an advantage in certain situations,” explained Swiatek, who is seeking her first final of 2024.

Eala, 19, a graduate of Rafael Nadal's academy, broke Swiatek's serve early and won the first set. But the Pole adjusted her pace and took advantage of her opponent's slump.

“I didn't play smoothly from the start, but I managed to solve it,” said Swiatek, a four-time Roland Garros champion.

Swiatek has reached three semifinals this year (Australia, Indian Wells, and Doha), but has yet to reach a final. She recently lost in Stuttgart to Jelena Ostapenko.

For her part, Eala was coming off a historic run in Miami, where she defeated Swiatek, Ostapenko, and Madison Keys, becoming the first Filipino to enter the Top 100 rankings. She currently sits at No. 72.

In other results, American Coco Gauff came from behind to defeat Dayana Yastremska 0-6, 6-2, 7-5.

It was only the second time in his career that he won after losing the first set 6-0.

Gauff, world number four, will face Ann Li, who defeated Leylah Fernandez in three sets.

Russian youngster Mirra Andreeva (17) also advanced, beating Marie Bouzkova 6-3, 6-4. She will turn 18 next Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Brazilian Bia Haddad Maia came from behind to beat Bernarda Pera 2-6, 6-3, 6-1.

In the men's draw, Japan's Kei Nishikori achieved his 450th tour-level victory by defeating Aleksandar Vukic 6-4, 3-6, 6-3.

“I had no idea. I just try to take one match at a time,” said Nishikori, who will now face Denis Shapovalov.

Tomás Etcheverry (Argentina), Nicolás Jarry (Chile), and Joao Fonseca (Brazil) also advanced. Etcheverry will face Musetti, and Jarry will face Dimitrov. Fonseca will play alongside Tommy Paul.

David Goffin withdrew against Alexandre Muller due to discomfort.

Magic Box Details

A day full of surprises left key moments out of the spotlight during the intense day of the Madrid Open.

Figures

Marie Bouzkova committed five double faults in her loss to Andreeva. Brazilian Bia Haddad Maia hit 29 winners. Ann Li earned her first win in Madrid.