Elena Svitolina secured a spot in the final of the Rome tournament after defeating Iga Swiatek with a score of 6-2, 4-6, 6-2. Svitolina’s ability to save break points and capitalize on Swiatek’s errors paved the way for victory in the semifinals. The two-time champion reached the final for the first time since winning consecutive titles in 2017 and 2018.
“The feeling is just unreal to be back here in the final after so many years,” Svitolina said after her victory over Swiatek.
In the three sets, Swiatek committed 50 unforced errors against just 28 winners. Svitolina will face Coco Gauff in the final, with a record of 2-0 against Gauff this year and a 3-2 overall head-to-head record.
“I definitely have a plan for the game. Not now, but I will have one,” Svitolina said.
“We have played many times. It’s no surprise. Both of us know how to conduct the battle. Our last match was something out of this world. I will watch it again to find ways... some tactics. I want to enjoy this victory. Tomorrow is a rest day... so I can get some rest, prepare, and be ready for the final," she added.
The age difference between Svitolina and Gauff is 9 years and 182 days, the largest between finalists in Rome since 1990, when Martina Navratilova and Monica Seles competed (17 years and 45 days).
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