Swiatek Set to Clash with Noskova in Madrid Open Round of 32

MADRID: Iga Swiatek, the world’s second-ranked player, commenced her Madrid Open 2025 title defense with a challenging victory over Alexandra Eala on Thursday.

The Polish competitor rallied from an initial setback to secure a 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 triumph against the young talent.

In her first tournament appearance this year, Swiatek found herself under pressure as Eala seized the opening set emphatically.

However, Swiatek demonstrated resilience, overcoming a sluggish start to guarantee her advancement into the Round of 32.

Swiatek, facing Eala—the same adversary who had previously surprised her in Miami—felt the strain from the beginning.

The 23-year-old initially struggled to find her rhythm, appearing less sharp than usual. Nonetheless, she displayed her renowned mental fortitude and extensive experience to shift the momentum of the match.

After conceding the first set, Swiatek steadily regained command, blending robust baseline strokes with more calculated shot choices to counteract the determined efforts of her 19-year-old opponent.

From a 4-4 tie in the second set, Swiatek surged ahead, claiming five consecutive games to overturn the match’s trajectory. Despite an initial inability to serve out the second set, she swiftly broke Eala’s serve again, compelling a decisive set, which she then dominated.

This match proved to be a significant test for the reigning Madrid champion, who aims to accumulate substantial ranking points during the European clay season in preparation for the French Open.

Following this victory, Iga Swiatek has advanced to the Round of 32, where she is scheduled to compete against Linda Noskova of the Czech Republic on Saturday.