Swiatek ends 11-month drought, wins Canadian Open for first time

Polish tennis star Iga Swiatek has ended a nearly 11-month wait for a title, clinching her first trophy of the 2026 season at the Canadian Open. Swiatek defeated Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina 6-2, 6-3 in the final, securing her 26th career title and her first since winning the Korea Open in September 2025.

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It has been difficult. I am happy to have maintained my composure, to have maintained my concentration and to continue growing each month, regardless of the challenges. I am very proud to have been able to win this tournament.

The victory comes after a difficult season for the former world number one, who had not reached a final prior to this tournament. Swiatek had openly acknowledged 2026 as the most challenging year of her career. However, her performance against Rybakina, the second seed, was one of her most convincing in recent months. She dominated the match, not losing a single service game, converting four out of five break points, and saving both of Rybakina's opportunities.

Swiatek's strong play was evident throughout the match, winning 56 out of 97 points and maintaining a high percentage of points won on her first serve. Rybakina struggled with consistency, committing four double faults and failing to capitalize on her break point chances. The match concluded in just one hour and 15 minutes, with Swiatek sealing the win in the second set.

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Now I just want to enjoy, because it has been quite some time since I won a title. It means a lot and I had also never won in Canada before, so it feels especially incredible.

Speaking after the match, Swiatek expressed immense relief and happiness. "It has been difficult. I am happy to have maintained my composure, to have maintained my concentration and to continue growing each month, regardless of the challenges. I am very proud to have been able to win this tournament," she stated. She also noted that the criticism she faced during her title drought served as additional motivation. "Now I just want to enjoy, because it has been quite some time since I won a title. It means a lot and I had also never won in Canada before, so it feels especially incredible," Swiatek added, emphasizing the significance of this particular victory.

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I want to take a lot of confidence from this. It is proof that I am on the right track. I just need to keep going.