Karolina Pliskova says no one likes playing against Iga Switaek on clay ahead of quarterfinal battle at Stuttgart Open

Karolina Pliskova continued her good run at the Stuttgart Open, as she claimed a three-set victory over Donna Vekic in the second round. The Czech tennis player had earlier knocked out the eighth seed Maria Sakkari in the first round itself. She will face the defending champion and world number one, Iga Switaek in the quarterfinals on Friday.

Ahead of their quarterfinal battle, Karolina Pliskova acknowledges the task that lies ahead of her. She believes that no one likes playing against Iga Swiatek on clay, given her unprecedented dominance on the surface over the last couple of years. She has already claimed two French Open titles, and is the certain favorite for the French Open title this year.

Karolina Pliskova remains optimistic about her chances, as she believes that the Stuttgart Open courts are a bit on the faster side. “Yeah, I mean, of course I think she’s maybe one of the toughest on clay, definitely, of course, winning Roland Garros two times. So of course I think on clay nobody really likes to play her, but these conditions I think they can be a little bit different because still is a little bit faster,” Pliskova said.

Keep Exploring: Stefanos Tsitsipas admits mistake in blabbering ‘STUPID THINGS’ against Andrey Rublev

Karolina Pliskova hopes to be a bit more aggressive against Iga Swiatek

Karolina Pliskova revealed that she would do nothing different against Iga Swiatek, but plans on being more aggressive against the reigning French Open champion. Iga Swiatek has a tendency of putting her opponents under pressure very early into the match, something which the Czech will want to avoid.

“I still, for me, that doesn’t change. I still have to play my game. Maybe just adapt my position a little bit on the court but still to play aggressive. That’s going to be the key,” said Pliskova.

“Let’s see. I was practicing here with her once before the tournament. It was quite, let’s say, okay practice. I know at least a little bit like what to expect. I’m gonna watch her match. It’s gonna be her first match also this year on clay. It’s like you never play the best match if it’s like your first on that new surface. So let’s see how she’s gonna play,” she added.

Iga Swiatek defeated Qinweg Zheng in straight sets in the second round to setup a quarterfinal date with Karolina Pliskova. The Polish tennis star has claimed just one title this season, which came at the Qatar Open. She was defeated in the semifinals of the Indian Wells Open by the eventual champion Elena Rybakina.

In case you missed it:

• Roger Federer and Dua Lipa’s co-chaired jury caught in crossfire as PETA demands ban on Serena Williams-type dresses
• LTA bows down to ATP as they PLEAD for a reduction in their million-dollar fine for banning Russian players

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW