Iga Świątek made a triumphant return to the tennis court, continuing her winning streak and solidifying her place in the history of women’s tennis. On Tuesday, she defeated American Sofia Kenin, marking her 20th consecutive victory. This win also tied her with one of Agnieszka Radwańska’s notable achievements.
Świątek’s impressive year includes victories in Madrid, Rome, and the Grand Slam tournament at Roland Garros, culminating in a series of 19 consecutive wins. After these triumphs, Świątek took a well-deserved break, and fans didn’t see her on the court for over three weeks.
She returned in entirely new conditions, trading her beloved clay courts for the grass of Wimbledon, which has historically been challenging for her. However, on Tuesday, Świątek showed no signs of struggle. She defeated the always-dangerous 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin in style, advancing to the second round.
Two Achievements to Remember
With her 20th consecutive victory, Świątek has once again etched her name in the history books. Although she still has a way to go to match her record of 37 consecutive wins from two years ago, this achievement is significant. Świątek is only the second player since 2005, after Justine Henin, to record two separate winning streaks of at least 20 matches. Remarkably, she has accomplished this before turning 24.
Additionally, Świątek matched a feat belonging to Agnieszka Radwańska. She has won her opening matches in all 18 Grand Slam tournaments she has participated in this decade. Radwańska achieved this milestone a decade ago.
Seeded number one, Świątek, whose best Wimbledon result is reaching the quarter-finals, will face Petra Martić in the second round.