Iga Swiatek Beats Paolini to Capture Maiden Cincinnati Crown

Iga Swiatek claimed her first Cincinnati Open title on Monday, defeating Italy’s Jasmine Paolini 7-5, 6-4. The third-seeded Polish player appeared to be in control of the competition, winning every set. The victory gives her an 11th WTA 1000 trophy and her first since last year’s Italian Open.

With this win, Swiatek now ranks second on the all-time WTA 1000 winners list, behind only Serena Williams (23 titles). Her return to world No. 2 ahead of the US Open, where she will be the second seed, is also guaranteed by the outcome.

Paolini started strong, taking a 3-0 lead in the opening set, but Swiatek quickly turned things around with a five-game streak. After missing her first chance to serve out the set, she eventually secured it on her second try. In the second set, Swiatek saved two key break points at 4-3 and sealed victory with a strong serve, maintaining her perfect 6-0 record against Paolini.

“It means a lot to finally win here,” Swiatek said. “This season has been challenging, but I’m happy I could play well on faster courts. I’m super happy and grateful to my team.”

Paolini, who became the first Italian woman to reach the Cincinnati final, admitted Swiatek’s serving made the difference. “When she needed an ace, she hit one. I still take a lot of positives from this tournament,” she said.

The win is an important confidence boost for Swiatek ahead of the US Open, starting Sunday in New York. She will be paired with Casper Ruud of Norway to compete in the event's new mixed doubles division.

In the men’s final earlier, Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz lifted the title after Jannik Sinner retired in the first set due to illness.