Iga Swiatek finally captured her first Cincinnati Open women’s single title after beating Jasmine Paolini 7–5, 6–4. It has been a source of distress to her for a long time; she just continues losing in the semifinals, to Coco Gauff in 2023 and then Aryna Sabalenka in 2024. Finally, on her sixth try, she succeeded, not losing a set all tournament.
How the Final Goes
Paolini started well, going 3–0 up in the first set. Then Swiatek retaliated, winning five consecutive games, and eventually sealed the opener 7–5. There were service breaks for both sides in the second set, but Swiatek remained more solid, and she converted all six break opportunities. The match lasted 1 hour and 49 minutes, demonstrating why she is still one of the hardest court players.
Career Step for Swiatek
The title became Swiatek’s 24th career singles trophy, and her 11th WTA 1000, leaving just Serena Williams behind her in Open Era totals. With the victory, she is also returning to World No. 2, ahead of Coco Gauff. That ranking awards her the second seed in the US Open. Having also won Wimbledon in a previous match, the Cincinnati title leaves her with even greater momentum.
Paolini Make History
Jasmine Paolini, despite losing, still achieved something significant. She is the first Italian female to have achieved a final of the Cincinnati Open. That on top of other achievements such as contesting Grand Slam finals, winning Olympic gold and also a doubles Slam title. For Paolini, this tournament indicates her consistent ascendancy, and how she begins the final in authoritative fashion demonstrates her game belongs at the high level.
Looking Ahead to the US Open
Swiatek’s complete game at Cincinnati, with sharp returns and breaking serve opportune, now sets her up ideally for the US Open. The way she dominates the match after being slow off the mark against Paolini displays her mental toughness. Paolini also has positives; her performance here provides confidence for New York.
Highlights Recap
| Key Detail | Summary |
|---|---|
| Champion | Iga Swiatek – first Cincinnati Open crown |
| Final Score | 7–5, 6–4 vs Jasmine Paolini |
| WTA 1000 Titles | 11, second only after Serena Williams |
| Career Titles | 24 singles |
| Ranking Update | Back to World No. 2 |
| Paolini’s Mark | First Italian woman in Cincinnati final |