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Sofia Kenin vs Iga Swiatek: French Open final Preview and Prediction

Fourth seed Sofia Kenin locks horns against teen sensation Iga Swiatek in the finals of the French Open. 

Kenin was too good for Petra Kvitova overcoming her 6-4 7-5 in the semifinals. 

Swiatek thrashed Nadia Podoroska 6-2 6-1 in the semifinals.

Key Insights

  • Swiatek has won all her matches in straight sets so far.
  • Swiatek's win-loss record on clay stands at an impressive 61-11.
  • Swiatek will aim for her maiden grand slam while Kenin will look to clinch her second slam after winning the Australian Open this year.
    • Swiatek is also the first Polish woman to make it to the final at Roland Garros in the Open era.
  • Swiatek leads the head to head record 1-0 beating Kenin in straight sets in the junior French Open in 2016.
  • This is the first time since 2003 at the French Open that both the finalists are under the age of 21.

 

The Polish girl has been the star of the tournament having pulverized all her opponents. She has not conceded more than five games in a match, which speaks of her strong dominance. 

She would look to emulate the legendary Justine Henin who also won the French Open in 2007 without dropping a single set.  

On the other hand, Kenin has spent more time on court having played four three-set matches. 

Swiatek has relied on aggression with her big serve and wicked topspin forehand doing the damage. Her footwork has been terrific and she has finished a lot of points at the net. 

The American has overcome some tough challenges with her never-say-die spirit. While her serve is not her main weapon, her excellent use of drop shots and smart court placement has contributed to her success. She also plays big points calmly. 

"I've had tough matches these past two weeks and I’m so excited to be in the final, it's incredible, I’m going to enjoy this moment today and get ready for the final tomorrow, we played in juniors in the French Open, it was a close one. I’m going to prepare for the final and I’m going to do my best,” opined Kenin sounding optimistic about her chances. 

Kenin will rely on her variety of shots and redirection to dismantle Swiatek's game. 

Swiatek will look to go all out and use clever angels to trouble Kenin.

How the Stats map out between Kenin and Swiatek

Player NameSofia KeninIga Swiatek 
Ranking 654
Sets lost so far 40
Aces63
Double faults216
Winners194150
Unforced errors180110
Sets played 1612
Percentage of return games won49%70%
Percentage of second serve points won46%63%
Breakpoint conversion69% (40/58)63% (15/24)
Time spent on court 10 hours and 34 minutes 7 hours

While Kenin has more grand slam experience than Swiatek, the Polish girl who will be the underdog would aim to continue playing fearless tennis. 

“I'm going to be like an underdog, if you could say something about that, to the finalist, usually I'm that kind of player who is playing better under pressure, if I'm not going to choke up, I think everything will be fine," said Swiatek aiming to continue her remarkable run.

The one who holds their nerves will most likely lift the Suzanne-Lenglen Cup for the first time.

Prediction - Iga Swiatek to win in three sets 

Featured Image Credits - Getty Images 

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