Swiatek meets Paolini in Cincinnati final

Iga Swiatek advances to the Cincinnati Open final with a straight-sets win over Elena Rybakina, setting up a title bid against Jasmine Paolini.

Swiatek to Meet Paolini in Cincinnati Open Final

Swiatek beat Rybakina 7-5 6-3 to reach the Cincinnati Open final, where she will face Jasmine Paolini in a rematch of last year's French Open final. Rybakina, who defeated world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka in the quarterfinals, began strongly but Swiatek wore down the pressure and controlled key rallies to seal the win.

Italy's Paolini edged Veronika Kudermetova in a 6-3 6-7 (2-7) 6-3 semifinal, despite Kudermetova's late surge. Kudermetova finished with a high error count as Paolini kept her focus and closed out the match in the final set. The final is scheduled for Monday night.

Swiatek's progress here reinforces her habit of turning big moments into smooth wins, a pattern that has helped her win majors recently. Paolini, meanwhile, matches that momentum with accuracy from the baseline and the ability to endure long rallies, which will be crucial against Swiatek's speed.

This Cincinnati final doubles as a signal of form ahead of the late-season swing. With Paolini delivering a tough semi and Swiatek maintaining intensity, the clash could hinge on tactical adjustments and nerve under the lights.

Highlights

Momentum meets preparation as two champions face off in a high-stakes final.