Toronto: Iga Swiatek ends title drought and addresses critics

By Megan Sinclair — 14 August 2026 — 3 min read

Iga Swiatek secured her first title in Canada, defeating Elena Rybakina in straight sets at the National Bank Open in Toronto. This victory marks Swiatek’s first title in 11 months, ending a period of intense scrutiny and personal challenges.

Swiatek’s win, with a score of 6-2, 6-3, was achieved in 75 minutes. The match saw Rybakina concede an early advantage in the first set due to back-to-back double faults. Unforced errors continued to affect Rybakina in the second set, allowing Swiatek to maintain her lead and convert her second championship point.

Swiatek addresses public scrutiny

Following her victory, Swiatek expressed strong emotions, later explaining that her anger stemmed from critical voices, particularly from viewers and media in Poland. She dedicated her win to those dealing with “unfair judgment and hate,” urging them to “keep pushing, keep growing, keep focusing on yourself because you know what’s best for you.”

Swiatek, a prominent figure in Poland, has faced increased public scrutiny during what she described as a difficult past two years on tour. This scrutiny has intensified around her team, including the role of her psychologist, Daria Abramowicz. Swiatek noted that such judgment is not exclusive to Poland but is also present in other countries and sports.

She recounted an incident where paparazzi followed her near her apartment, highlighting the challenges of maintaining personal space despite her public profile. Swiatek stated that she can accept attention during professional activities but prefers privacy in her personal time.

Tournament highlights and future outlook

This win is significant for Swiatek, as it is her first title since last September and her first alongside her new coach, Francisco Roig. The victory also improves her head-to-head record against Rybakina on the WTA Tour Driven by Mercedes-Benz to 7-6, breaking a two-match losing streak against her rival.

The tournament in Toronto marked a return to form for Swiatek, who had not reached a final earlier in the season and had seen her ranking slip. Her path to the title included a dominant performance in the quarterfinals against Diana Shnaider and a semi-final win against Elina Svitolina, avenging previous losses.

After her win, Swiatek swiftly traveled to Cincinnati for her title defense in Ohio, reflecting the demanding schedule of professional tennis. She acknowledged the intensity but expressed her intention to appreciate her achievements, stating, “You need to get a taste of these moments and remember them.”

In the men’s draw, Ben Shelton successfully defended his title in Montreal, defeating fellow American Brandon Nakashima 6-3, 7-6 (7-4). Shelton did not drop a set throughout the tournament, becoming the fourth man this century to win back-to-back at the event, joining Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal.

Swiatek’s victory in Toronto marks her 26th career title and her 12th WTA 1000 crown, placing her second only to Serena Williams in this format since 2009. She is projected to rise three spots to No. 5 in the PIF WTA Rankings and two places to No. 10 in the Race to the WTA Finals.

The US Open is scheduled to begin on August 30.

Source: theguardian.com