Five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek came into Wimbledon hoping to take the next step on grass in London. She started positively by not dropping a set in the opening two rounds, including beating Sofia Kenin. The world No. 1 was a major favourite against Yulia Putintseva in the third round, having not lost to the Kazakhstani in their four previous meetings. However, what transpired was not what most tennis fans were expecting, with Swiatek being knocked out by an incredible performance from Putintseva.
Swiatek Stunned By Inspired Putintseva at Wimbledon
Swiatek’s Takes the First Set After Some Strong Serving
Putintseva showed she was going to be a test for Swiatek from the beginning. Her athleticism and drop shots were causing the Pole problems from the first game. However, Swiatek was able to fend off her opponent’s challenge with some excellent serving. Swiatek faced three break points, but she stood strong in those pressured moments. That meant a single break was all she needed to take the opening set, which Swiatek managed in the sixth game. The world No. 1 took the opening set 6-3.
Putintseva Plays an Amazing Second Set
Many were undoubtedly expecting the French Open champion to run away with the match after taking the opening set. But what happened next left the crowd on Court 1 stunned. Putintseva began to produce almost unplayable tennis. Her combination of drop shots, short slices and power at the right time were too much for Swiatek to handle. Incredibly, she only hit one unforced error in the entire second set, while Swiatek leaked 11 mistakes. That allowed the Kazakhstani to quickly win the second set 6-1 and force a decider.
Putintseva Seals a Memorable Victory
Putintseva continued to gesture to the crowd after her great shots, getting more and more support as the contest went on. She responded to their warmth by playing more outstanding tennis in the deciding set. The 29-year-old began to use the drop shot even more, with Swiatek clearly uncomfortable each time she was dragged forward to the net. Putintseva also began returning even better. That allowed her to break twice and race into a 4-0 lead in the third set. Swiatek finally stopped the rot in the fourth game, but it made no difference to the final outcome. Putintseva won two more service games to confirm a 3-6 6-1 6-2 triumph after a performance that will live long in the memory on Court 1.
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea – USA TODAY Sports
