The second edition of the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia kicked off with a stunning performance from Iga Swiatek, who showcased her prowess by overpowering Madison Keys with a commanding score of 6-1, 6-2 in the group stage opener. This match marked a significant comeback for Swiatek, who had faced fatigue after a grueling 10-month season, suffering a loss in the quarter-finals of the Wuhan Open prior to this encounter. After taking a three-week break to regroup, the six-time Grand Slam champion appeared revitalized and focused, reinforcing her position as one of the tournament favorites alongside world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
Swiatek’s match against Keys highlighted the intense competitive spirit, as she relentlessly applied pressure from both wings while maintaining a strong serve, allowing her to dictate play with minimal unforced errors. Contrastingly, Keys, returning to compete after her opening round elimination at the US Open and struggling with form due to a wrist injury, found it challenging to cope. Her inability to regain rhythm saw her committing 38 unforced errors while scoring only eight winners.
The WTA Finals is being hosted for the second consecutive year in Saudi Arabia as part of a three-year commitment. Swiatek’s calm demeanor this time around, free from the distraction of previous controversies, was evident. In her last appearance, she was informed of a positive test for the banned substance trimetazidine, though she was ultimately cleared after proving her medication had been contaminated. This year, with the competitive environment stabilized, Swiatek can solely focus on her performance.
This event offers substantial financial incentives, providing an undefeated champion with an unprecedented $5.235 million prize, the largest purse in women’s sports history. Swiatek, now the second-highest earner in women’s tennis history, recently surpassed Venus Williams in earnings, trailing only behind Serena Williams. Given her performance so far, the financial prospects are likely to grow even further.
In another exciting match on the same day, Elena Rybakina continued her strong form by defeating fourth seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3, 6-1. Rybakina, who had secured her place in the Finals after winning in Ningbo, China, displayed exceptional shot-making and serving prowess.
Looking ahead, the tournament will continue to unfold as Swiatek and Rybakina are scheduled to face off on Monday, with Anisimova and Keys in a must-win match for both players. The competition promises to intensify with further matches featuring top players including Sabalenka, Paolini, Coco Gauff, and Jessica Pegula in the coming days.