Swiatek dominates Raducanu at Australian Open

Iga Swiatek issues warning to rivals after emphatic third-round victory in Melbourne.

Iga Swiatek of Poland reacts during her third-round match against Emma Raducanu of Great Britain on Day 7 of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images

By Hayu Andini and Randy Ahmad

Iga Swiatek, the five-time Grand Slam champion and world number two, delivered a commanding performance at the Australian Open, defeating 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu in a one-sided third-round encounter. Swiatek’s dominant 6-1, 6-0 victory at Rod Laver Arena on Saturday showcased her impeccable form and sent a clear message to her rivals.

The Pole has now advanced to the tournament’s second week, dropping just 10 games across her three matches. Despite her past struggles in Melbourne, Swiatek warned her opponents that her best is yet to come.

"I feel much more fresh than for the past two years," Swiatek told reporters after the match. "I can now just focus on improving my game."

Swiatek’s performance against Raducanu was nothing short of spectacular. With 24 winners and only 12 unforced errors, the 23-year-old appeared to be in complete control, dictating the pace of the match and outclassing her opponent in just 70 minutes.

"I felt great. I felt like the ball is listening to me," Swiatek said. "I played a few shots today that reminded me why I practice so hard—to execute in moments like this."

The match marked a significant milestone for Raducanu, who reached the Australian Open’s third round for the first time. However, the Briton, ranked 61 in the world, struggled to keep up with Swiatek’s intensity.

Iga Swiatek of Poland and Emma Raducanu of Great Britain shake hands at the net after their third-round match on Day 7 of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images

Swiatek’s ruthless streak was evident as she won 11 consecutive games after dropping the first, refusing to give Raducanu a chance to find her rhythm.

"I felt like she might have lost her belief a bit in the second set," Swiatek noted. "But you never know what’s going on on the other side of the net. I knew I had to stay intense because if I backed out, she could take advantage."

Swiatek’s journey at the Australian Open has been marked by consistency and dominance, a stark contrast to her patchy record in previous years. Her impressive run in Melbourne this year signals a potential breakthrough as she aims to claim her first title at the tournament.

Next, Swiatek faces Germany’s Eva Lys, a “lucky loser” ranked 128 in the world. While the matchup appears favorable for Swiatek, she remains focused on maintaining her high standards.

Swiatek’s path to the final has also been made more manageable, with key contenders Coco Gauff and defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the other half of the draw. However, a potential semi-final clash with Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina looms as her toughest test yet.

A new level of confidence

Swiatek credited her mental and physical preparation for her remarkable form this year. Reflecting on her journey, she admitted that the past two years had been challenging due to fatigue and stress.

"The last two years, I felt much more tired, and the stress affected my game," Swiatek said. "Now, I feel like I’m in a better place mentally and physically, which allows me to focus on playing my best tennis."

Her dominance in Melbourne so far has been a testament to her growth as a player and her ability to adapt and evolve.

Iga Swiatek of Poland hits a forehand during the women's singles third-round match against Emma Raducanu of Great Britain on Day 7 of the 2025 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on January 18, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Shi Tang/Getty Images

As the tournament progresses, Swiatek’s message to her competitors is clear: she is not holding back. Her relentless style of play and newfound confidence make her a formidable opponent.

Swiatek’s third-round performance not only highlighted her immense skill but also underscored her determination to go all the way. For fans and rivals alike, it’s evident that Swiatek is a force to be reckoned with at this year’s Australian Open.

If she continues at this level, the title could be hers to lose.