World number two Iga Swiatek captured her first Cincinnati Open title on Monday after defeating Italy’s Jasmine Paolini 7-5, 6-4 in the final at P&G Centre Court. The victory marks a strong statement from the six-time Grand Slam champion as she heads into the upcoming US Open.

Swiatek, who did not drop a set throughout the tournament, claimed her 11th WTA 1000 crown and her first since the 2023 Italian Open.

Reflecting on her win, the Polish star credited her team for pushing her to improve.

“I want to thank my team. I don’t know why I won tournaments that were like the last ones in terms of where I thought I would be playing well,” Swiatek said.
“Thank you for forcing me to become a better player and learning how to play on these faster surfaces. I’m shocked and super happy.”

The final saw Paolini start strong, racing to a 3-0 lead. However, Swiatek’s response was clinical as she reeled off five consecutive games to seize control. Despite facing two break points at 4-3 in the second set, Swiatek held her nerve before sealing the championship with a powerful serve.

The victory extended Swiatek’s perfect head-to-head record against Paolini to 6–0.

Looking ahead, Swiatek will also pair up with Norway’s Casper Ruud in the inaugural US Open mixed doubles event.

In the men’s tournament, Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz lifted the title after top seed Jannik Sinner was forced to retire during the opening set of the final.