Iga Swiatek led Poland to the final of the United Cup after defeating Elena Rybakina in straight sets on Saturday, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead over Kazakhstan, MySportDab Reports.
The world No. 2 triumphed 7-6 (5), 6-4, sending last year’s runners-up into Sunday’s title clash against either the United States or the Czech Republic in Sydney.
Swiatek’s victory was a statement of intent ahead of the Australian Open, which begins on January 12. “This win makes me really proud,” she said. “It is perfect preparation for the Australian Open.”
The 23-year-old Pole started slowly, struggling with rhythm against world No. 6 Rybakina. The opening set was fiercely contested, with Rybakina saving two set points before Swiatek prevailed in the tiebreak.
In the second set, the Polish star found her groove, overcoming early struggles to seal the match.
“I didn’t start well and had the handbrake on a bit,” Swiatek admitted. “I told myself I wouldn’t miss any more, and that changed the momentum. It’s always tough against Elena.”
Earlier, Hubert Hurkacz gave Poland the perfect start with a dominant 6-3, 6-2 win over Alexander Shevchenko in the men’s singles. Ranked 16th in the world, Hurkacz bounced back after losing both his group-stage singles matches, carrying confidence from his quarter-final win over Britain’s Billy Harris.
“The last match here gave me confidence, and I’ve been playing better with every single match,” Hurkacz said.
Poland now awaits the winner of the second semi-final, where the United States, led by Coco Gauff, take on the Czech Republic later on Saturday.
