The triumph of Swiatek, the champion from the prior year, seemed almost certain from the outset, especially given the shaky beginning by Keys, who was playing her initial match since her early exit at the US Open back in August.
Swiatek, currently ranked as the world’s second-best player, capitalized on her first chance to break the American’s serve – aided by a pair of double faults – and maintained that advantage without pause. Keys managed to score only three points before finding herself trailing 5-0.
Keys, who celebrated her long-awaited first major championship in January, managed to hold serve on her third attempt, briefly interrupting Swiatek’s dominance. However, the 30-year-old finished the opening set, which lasted just 23 minutes, with only a single winning shot against 15 unforced errors.
Swiatek, a six-time major titleholder, continued her strong performance with an immediate break at the start of the second set. However, a momentary dip in focus in the subsequent game provided Keys with a chance to regain ground.
Nevertheless, Keys committed two more double faults, handing the upper hand back to her adversary. Swiatek then proceeded to win five of the last six games, securing a victory that had become increasingly predictable.
When asked what aspect of her play she was most satisfied with, the 24-year-old shared with the audience, “Everything. I was able to put together all the elements I’ve been working on in practice, achieving a good balance between consistency and aggression.”
