Swiatek Eases Past Pera In Madrid, Moves Into Last 16

World number one Iga Swiatek eased past American Bernarda Pera to reach the last 16 at the Madrid Open.

The Pole won 6-3 6-2 in just over an hour to register her 22nd win of the season and her sixth in a row.

“I wouldn’t say it was easy, every match is tricky here,” Swiatek said during her on-court interview. 

“I’m pretty happy that I have played a little bit better every day and I’m happy I’m getting my rhythm. 

"But playing against a lefty is never easy. 

"I’m pretty happy that I was really disciplined and focused.”

This makes it only the second time Swiatek has played at the event in her career and she is seeking to win the Madrid title for the first time after missing the tournament in 2022 due to a shoulder injury. 

“The courts (at the Madrid Open) are pretty amazing,” the top seed commented on the event. 

"The whole facility is great, you feel like it is new and innovative 

“This year is the first time I am staying a little bit closer to the city centre of Madrid so I have been able to do some sightseeing. 

"This city is amazing. When I was here two years ago it was during covid so I was stuck in my hotel. 

"Right now I am really enjoying it.”