Iga Swiatek clinches Qatar Open title for third consecutive year, defeating Elena Rybakina
On Saturday, February 17, 2024, world number one Iga Swiatek secured her third consecutive Qatar Open title by defeating Elena Rybakina with a score of 7-6 (10/8), 6-2 in the final match.
Swiatek’s remarkable achievement makes her the first player to claim three consecutive titles at the same WTA event since Serena Williams accomplished a Miami Open hat-trick from 2013-2015.
Despite a challenging start, Swiatek showcased her resilience by recovering from a double break behind at 1-4 in the opening set.
Although Rybakina gained a 6-5 lead with her service game to come, Swiatek rallied once more to force a tie-break, eventually clinching the set after several missed opportunities and saved set points.
In the second set, Swiatek continued to demonstrate her dominance, swiftly taking a 3-1 lead before securing a crucial second break of Rybakina’s serve in the seventh game.
With a solid performance, Swiatek sealed the victory after two hours and 19 minutes of intense play.
Rybakina, who fell short in her quest for a third title of the year, had previously triumphed in Abu Dhabi the week before and in Brisbane at the start of January.
Despite her strong efforts, Swiatek’s exceptional play ultimately earned her another Qatar Open title, highlighting her prowess on the court.
