Can Danielle Collins Really Upset Defending Champion Iga Swiatek at the Italian Open?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Danielle Collins eliminated defending champion Iga Swiatek in the third round of the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia. This unexpected victory raises questions about Swiatek's form and confidence as she prepares for the upcoming French Open.
Key Takeaways
- Danielle Collins upsets defending champion Iga Swiatek in third round.
- Collins displayed aggressive play with 32 winners.
- Swiatek struggled with unforced errors, totaling 22.
- This loss raises doubts about Swiatek's readiness for Roland Garros.
- Peyton Stearns achieved a notable upset over Madison Keys.
Rome, May 10 (NationPress) In a remarkable third-round upset during the 2025 Internazionali BNL d’Italia, Danielle Collins eliminated defending champion Iga Swiatek with a score of 6-1, 7-5 at Rome’s Campo Centrale. The American's assertive style effectively disrupted Swiatek's flow, marking her second victory against the World No. 1 in their nine encounters.
Swiatek, who had previously excelled in Rome with a record of 21-1 in her last 22 matches, seemed uncharacteristically off her game. Collins took full advantage, hitting 32 winners compared to Swiatek's 15 and converting six out of eight break points. In contrast, Swiatek only managed two breaks from ten chances and accumulated 22 unforced errors, according to WTA statistics.
This victory not only concluded Swiatek’s remarkable streak in Rome but also showcased Collins’ revival in her final professional season. After announcing her retirement at the end of the year, Collins has shown impressive form, winning back-to-back titles in Miami and Charleston and reaching the semifinals in Rome. Her performance against Swiatek highlights her resolve to finish her career on a high note.
For Swiatek, this defeat signifies her ninth loss of the season, matching her total from the previous year. As she readies for Roland Garros, concerns about her form and confidence are growing. Once a dominant player on clay, Swiatek now faces the daunting task of recapturing her momentum ahead of the French Open.
In another notable match, Peyton Stearns delivered a significant upset at the Italian Open, defeating No. 5 seed Madison Keys 2-6, 6-2, 7-6(3) in an all-American third round. She now advances to her second consecutive WTA 1000 fourth round, where she will compete against either Naomi Osaka or Marie Bouzkova.
Stearns had previously faced Keys in Toronto last year, winning via retirement after Keys suffered a leg injury while trailing 3-0 in the third set. In this rematch, the 23-year-old sealed the win to claim her second career Top 10 victory following her earlier success against Zheng Qinwen in Dubai three months ago. Stearns led by a break twice in the third set, but Keys fought back each time, pushing the match to a tiebreak — however, Stearns executed a brilliant drop shot-pass combination to secure a crucial 5-3 lead.
Point of View
We recognize the importance of this upset in the tennis world. Danielle Collins not only showcased her skill but also raised significant questions about Iga Swiatek's current form. This match highlights the unpredictability of sports and the resilience of athletes as they navigate their careers.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of the match between Collins and Swiatek?
Danielle Collins defeated Iga Swiatek with a score of 6-1, 7-5.
How many times has Collins defeated Swiatek?
This victory marks Collins’ second win over Swiatek in their nine meetings.
What does this loss mean for Swiatek's season?
This defeat is Swiatek's ninth loss this season, equal to her total losses from the previous year.
Who will Peyton Stearns face next in the tournament?
Peyton Stearns will face either Naomi Osaka or Marie Bouzkova in the next round.
What are Collins' prospects for the rest of the season?
Collins is showing strong form in her final season, having won titles in Miami and Charleston.
