Swiatek, Krejcikova for semis: Women’s preview

Iga Świątek looks as impressive this year as she did last October and should be the better of Greek Maria Sakkari in their Women’s quarterfinal clash at Roland Garros today.

Both players have been superb at this year’s French Open, and both, if not drawn in the same grouping, would be consider as finalists, but something has to give and Swiatek is ice cool and although this match may go to three sets, most commentators are expecting the young Pole to continue her winning ways at Roland Garros.

On clay Swiatek is almost, almost unplayable. Yet Sakkari has shown she can match it with the best.

“After winning last year I thought this year was going to be tougher,” Swiatek said. “Bit I have the same attitude and just want to forward again.”

She should do that – the commentator’s favourite for the crown this year.

Maria Sakkari celebrates her fourth round win over Sofia Kenin. Photo: Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd

In the other quarterfinal young American Coco Gauff will play her first Grand Slam last eight match.

Up against Barbora Krejcikova, this match could go either way, although Krejcikova looks more natural on clay.

Both women are on great runs, both have won WTA titles in the past month and both have won nine straight matches.

For the Czech Krejcikova though, experience might be her big ally in this encounter, with her doubles exploits helping her to reach a semifinal.

For Gauff to win, she has to be at the very top of her game – she its still young and has much, much more to offer.

It might just be a year or two too soon.

Peter Rowe

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