Iga Swiatek Highlights Improvement Under Francis Roig After Progressing at the US Open: “My Work Has Clicked”

Iga Swiatek navigated a remarkably difficult start to her 2026 campaign, which ultimately prompted a major shake-up in her coaching setup. Seeking fresh guidance after struggling for consistency, the Polish star decided to part ways with Wim Fissette and appointed veteran Spanish mentor Francis Roig.

Stepping out of her comfort zone and acknowledging that structural changes were necessary proved to be a vital exercise in Swiatek’s long-term vision. Right from the start of their partnership, Roig made it clear that modifying technical patterns on her serve and forehand was non-negotiable for future success. Swiatek said in her press conference:

I just feel that my work has clicked. All these things I needed to do with Francis we were doing from the beginning, but I feel like now it’s more natural and I don’t have to think about it. It’s become more automatic. So my game is a bit calmer, and I’m more patient, but I believe I’m making better decisions on the court. I’m happy that this work has paid off and that I’m now getting results.

A transformation of this magnitude does not happen overnight and requires immense patience from the former world No. 1 during early-season tournaments. Swiatek placed her trust in Roig’s extensive pedigree, drawing heavily on the Spaniard’s years of high-level experience advising Rafael Nadal.

The extensive hours spent on the practice court implementing these mechanical tweaks have finally begun to pay dividends on the tour. With her new tactical mindset locking into place, Swiatek has successfully transitioned from turbulent early-season form into a state of renewed competitive dominance.

Dominant start for Iga Swiatek at Flushing Meadows

Iga Swiatek launched her 2026 US Open campaign in style by dismissing world No. 80 Wang Xiyu 6-2, 6-3 in an 88-minute encounter. The eighth-seeded Polish star applied pressure early at Louis Armstrong Stadium, securing breaks in the fourth and eighth games of the opening set.

Though Xiyu offered stiffer resistance in the second set with deep topspin groundstrokes, Swiatek found a crucial break in the eighth game. She then successfully served out the match to complete a straight-sets victory without facing a single break point throughout the contest.

Swiatek rated her opening performance very highly during her post-match on-court interview, describing it as a good day in the office. She highlighted that she felt good right from the start, displaying the required energy and intensity that she intends to maintain moving forward.

The 25-year-old expressed satisfaction with how she handled a hard-court summer swing that has historically posed comfort challenges for her game. Following this opening-round victory, Swiatek advanced to the second round where she is scheduled to face Argentina’s Nadia Podoroska.

Milestone achievements unlocked

By defeating Wang Xiyu in her opening match, Iga Swiatek recorded her 25th career match win at Flushing Meadows. This milestone places her among an elite historical group of competitors who reached that victory threshold at the US Open in remarkably few appearances.

Furthermore, the victory marked her 28th consecutive opening-match win at Grand Slam-level events. This impressive streak spans multiple seasons and positions her right behind historical benchmarks set by Serena Williams.

As a six-time Grand Slam champion who previously captured the US Open singles crown in 2022, Swiatek is pursuing her seventh major title. Her current North American hard-court record stands firmly at 11-1 during the 2026 summer swing, underlining her competitive resurgence.

If the Polish player maintains this trajectory and secures the title in New York, it positions her ideally to complete the elusive Career Grand Slam at the Australian Open in a few months. Her renewed tactical clarity under Francis Roig provides a solid foundation for achieving these historic milestones.

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