Swiatek Battles Past Lamens to Reach U.S. Open Third Round

By Babatunji Wusu

• Swiatek wins 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 over Dutch qualifier Suzan Lamens
• 2022 champion survives second-set lapse on Arthur Ashe
• Extends winning momentum after Wimbledon & Cincinnati titles
• Faces 29th seed Anna Kalinskaya next

World No. 2 Iga Swiatek overcame a spirited challenge from the Netherlands’ Suzan Lamens on Thursday, grinding out a 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 victory to reach the U.S. Open third round.

The second seed looked dominant early, breaking twice to take the opening set with ease. But Lamens, playing with freedom, capitalized on Swiatek’s errors in the second set, breaking back twice and forcing a decider after the Pole double-faulted on set point.

Swiatek regained control in the third, racing to a 4-1 lead with her trademark baseline aggression. Lamens briefly threatened a comeback, saving break points in a tense sixth game, but Swiatek held firm on serve to close out the match.

Having lifted her sixth Grand Slam at Wimbledon and claimed the Cincinnati Masters, Swiatek remains a strong favorite in New York. She will next face 29th seed Anna Kalinskaya in what promises to be another stern test.