Iga Swiatek retains French Open 2023 crown after overcoming Karolina Muchova in thrilling women’s singles final

World number one Iga Swiatek defended her Roland Garros crown by outclassing unseeded Karolina Muchova in the 2023 women’s singles final on Saturday.

The 22-year-old Swiatek secured a 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 win over Muchova of the Czech Republic to become the youngest women’s player to clinch consecutive titles at the French Open since Monica Seles (1990, 1991, 2002). Swiatek also joined Seles and Naomi Osaka as the only women in the Open Era to clinch each of their first four Grand Slam finals.

Swiatek further became the first woman to win back-to-back French Open titles since Belgium’s Justine Henin (2005, 2006, 2007). The Polish star earned more records by becoming the youngest to win a fourth Grand Slam title since Serena Williams (1999 US Open, 2002 French, 2002 Wimbledon, 2002 US Open). Swiatek’s four major titles include the French Open (2020, 2022, 2023) and the US Open (2023).

Swiatek displayed her skills and determination early on, taking the lead by securing the opening set. Muchova fought back but couldn’t maintain her momentum, allowing Swiatek to regain control. However, Muchova’s persistence paid off as she forced a decider by winning the second set.

In a match between two frequent practice partners, Swiatek started the contest strong, taking an early lead as Muchova made errors. The world number one showcased her skills with a forehand winner, extending her advantage. However, the unseeded Muchova fought back, displaying her talent with a drop shot and narrowing the gap.

Swiatek, however, held her ground and secured the opening game of the first set. In the following game, Muchova gained an early advantage, but Swiatek equalised the score with a well-placed shot. Muchova made errors, giving Swiatek a 15-30 lead. Swiatek then capitalised on Muchova’s weaknesses and earned a break, taking a commanding lead.

Swiatek continued her dominance, serving effectively and extending her lead. Muchova struggled to find her rhythm, resulting in errors. Swiatek held her serve comfortably, maintaining her position as the defending champion and winning the opening set at 6-2.

The second set saw intense exchanges between the two players, with Muchova making a strong comeback and breaking Swiatek with an impressive shot. As the match reached its climax, both players faced challenges in holding their serves. Muchova pushed for a decider and managed to force it by winning the second set 7-5.

Muchova raced to a 2-0 lead, but Swiatek bounced back in time to make it all square at 4-4 in the decider. Swiatek then dominated the game with fearless and powerful shots, leading to Muchova’s mistakes. With two championship points, Muchova double faulted, making Swiatek the French Open champion again.