Swiatek Survives Scare Against Cristian: What Nearly Changed Everything?

World No. Iga Swiatek advanced to the fourth round of Roland-Garros after a tense 6-2, 7-5 victory over Romania’s Jaqueline Cristian, but the match was far from routine. Swiatek, the defending champion and four-time French Open winner, looked in control early, dominating the first set with her trademark power and precision.

However, the second set saw Cristian, ranked 60th in the world, push Swiatek to the limit. Swiatek’s game faltered as she committed 21 unforced errors and faced six break points, all of which she managed to save with remarkable composure Cristian’s aggressive play and flat hitting forced Swiatek into longer rallies and moments of visible frustration, especially under the scorching 30°C heat on Court Suzanne-Lenglen.

Despite the pressure, Swiatek’s experience proved decisive. She steadied her nerves in critical moments, closing out the match after nearly two hours to secure her 24th consecutive win at Roland-Garros, a streak that now matches Justine Henin and puts her just behind legends Chris Evert and Monica Seles for most consecutive wins in Paris.

Swiatek acknowledged the challenge, crediting Cristian for raising her level and making the match “entertaining.” The Polish star now moves into the last, keeping her title defense alive but showing signs of vulnerability as the tournament intensifies.