I went into this tournament having very low expectations because it's Iga's least comfortable surface and one she has least experience on, but she kept surpassing my and maybe even her own expectations.
Until today when she simply came across someone who was more fearless and better when it mattered. Iga had plenty of chances (serving out the first set and early break points in the 3rd) so that'll will definitely hurt, and her serve and forehand did let her down but all in all it's been a great tournament.
This loss doesn't negate the great progress she has made since last year, she really is slowly but surely figuring out how to play on this surface.
And she did break new ground by reaching the quarters (of this and every Grand Slam overall now) joining a small lift of players who've done the same.
A lot of people will probably be analyzing and wondering what happened at the end of the first, but when you don't feel comfortable on a surface the nerves and pressure can get to you and do funny things to your game.
Which is honestly what I think happened. Still so extremely proud of the way she fought in the 2nd set despite not playing her best and managing to take it to a 3rd.
She showed her mental resilience once again (for a while it was looking like a repeat of the 4th round) but Svitolina was just too good in the important moments and held it together really well.
Again what she's doing is simply extraordinary and like Iga herself I will be pulling for her to win the whole thing now. Well her and Ons Jabeur. I will be equally happy and gutted for whoever wins or loses.
Just as long as it's not Aryna Sabalenka.
Things will now get interesting in terms of the #1 ranking I believe Sabalenka has to reach the title match to take it from Iga. But Iga could get it back by winning her home tournament in Warsaw.
Needless to say I'm pulling for all the other players.
Keep your head up Iga and get some well earned rest. I know you'll come back stronger!.
See you on the hard courts!.
Jazda!
No comments:
Post a Comment