Swiatek survives error-filled start to reach US Open second round in straight sets

Iga Swiatek, aged 23, navigated through numerous unforced errors to advance to the second round of the US Open, achieving a 6-4, 7-6(6) victory against Kamilla Rakhimova, 22, from Russia, on Tuesday.

Swiatek, who has claimed five Grand Slam titles including the 2022 US Open, successfully converted three out of six break-point opportunities but accumulated a total of 41 unforced errors during the match, which lasted one hour and 52 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Rakhimova, who entered the main draw as a lucky loser following another player's withdrawal due to injury, nearly extended the match to a deciding set but failed to capitalize on three set points in the second-set tiebreak.

Swiatek initially established a commanding 4-0 lead with a double break and appeared set for an effortless victory; however, Rakhimova managed to consolidate a break, narrowing the gap before Swiatek closed the first set with her third game won at love.

In the second set, the Polish player maintained her momentum with another love hold to lead 3-1, but soon exhibited signs of frustration as her shots began to stray off target, while Rakhimova remained resolute in her efforts.

Swiatek had an opportunity to serve for the match, yet Rakhimova broke back to level the score at 5-5, leading to a tiebreak in which the Russian surged ahead 6-3 before a series of untimely errors allowed Swiatek to claim victory.

"At the beginning, I felt good, but then I became a bit tight, and my opponent capitalized on that, so I was trying to return to my game," Swiatek remarked.

I have been making an effort to acclimate to the courts, as I have not had extensive practice recently. This time, my intention was to experience playing on Arthur Ashe, and I am confident that with each passing day, I will develop a greater sense of rhythm.

The current French Open champion is set to compete against Japan's Ena Shibahara next.