Iga Swiatek marches on at French Open with straight sets win over Coco Gauff to book semi-final spot

ByEurosport

Updated 07/06/2023 at 17:23 GMT

Iga Swiatek is into the semi-finals of the French Open after beating Coco Gauff in straight sets. The Polish star looks primed to retain her title at Roland-Garros following a 6-4 6-2 victory over the American to set up a final-four showdown with Beatriz Haddad Maia. Stream the 2023 French Open live on discovery+, the Eurosport app and at eurosport.co.uk.

Iga Swiatek remains on course to retain her French Open title after a 6-4 6-2 win over Coco Gauff saw her march into the semi-finals.

Things looked ominous for Gauff after she went a break down in the first set and although she was able to claw it back, she was broken to love to hand Swiatek the opener.

The Pole then saved three break points early in the second set as Gauff’s chances of a comeback were dampened.

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When Swiatek broke for 4-2, the writing was on the wall and a second break sealed the win as the American had no response.

Swiatek will face Beatriz Haddad Maia in the final four after the Brazilian had earlier beaten Ons Jabeur.

"It wasn’t easy, especially first set was really tight," said two-time French Open champion Swiatek.

"Coco was using the conditions [in her favour], but I’m happy to [come through it]. Coco has already been in [the final stages of tournaments] despite being young, she's experienced, and I’m happy to be in the semi-final."

Gauff has now lost all seven of her career meetings against Swiatek in straight sets - including in last year's French Open final - although on this occasion she pushed the world No. 1 closer than she has before.

'Her best form' - Swiatek takes opening set with huge forehand

Gauff had moments during the match but converted just one of five break points while dropping her own serve four times.

Given the history between the pair, a strong start appeared key for Gauff’s chances.

She matched the world No. 1 in the early stages and even after losing serve in the fourth game, broke back immediately.

However, with the set heading for a close finish, Swiatek broke to love to win it.

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Gauff showed fight to stay in the match and had three chances to break Swiatek early in the second set.

She was unable to convert any of the opportunities - and the misses proved crucial.

From 2-2, Swiatek reeled off four games in a row to seal her place in the semis.

Either world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka or Karolina Muchova will await Swiatek or Haddad Maia in the final.

'Right at her!' - Swiatek takes a tumble after a body shot from Gauff

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Stream the 2023 French Open live on discovery+, the Eurosport app and at eurosport.com

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