Iga Swiatek shook off a mid-match wobble and back pain to triumph over Anna Kalinskaya 6-1, 1-6, 6-1, advancing in the Australian Open with authority.
Margaret Court Arena witnessed Swiatek’s first-set clinic: impeccable serving and breaks galore led to a 6-1 edge. The second set turned chaotic as Kalinskaya broke her thrice, tying it up.
Post-medical break for her lower back, Swiatek rediscovered her rhythm. A devastating third-set run of six games left Kalinskaya reeling, despite her valiant break-point saves.
The 1-hour-44-minute win bolsters Swiatek’s AO resume—sixth time to Round of 16, 25-7 record. Globally, her majors stat: 107-21.
Chasing the career Grand Slam with an AO missing piece, the second seed meets Madison Keys, the lone surviving home qualifier. Swiatek’s depth and fight signal title contention.