Iga Swiatek made the perfect start to her 2026 Qatar Open campaign.
In straight sets, Swiatek defeated Indonesia’s Janice Tjen, 6-0, 6-3.
The Pole was excellent from start to finish, booking her place in the third round of the Qatar Open without much trouble at all.
Tjen is no pushover, either, having impressed on the WTA Tour as of late.
The 23-year-old recently broke into the top 50, playing a brand of tennis similar to that of Australia’s Ash Barty.
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During her post-match interview, Swiatek shared her thoughts on Tjen’s game.
Iga Swiatek says Janice Tjen makes similar choices to Ash Barty
“I’m super happy, especially that I’m back here,” said Swiatek.
“I really love playing here, guys, so thank you for coming and cheering for us since our first matches.
“Today I needed to adjust to a different rhythm.
“Her choices are like Ash Barty’s, so it was a nice flashback.
“But I kind of knew what to expect. I just went for my shots, and I was ready.”
Swiatek had never played Tjen before, but met Barty twice, losing both of their WTA Tour encounters.
Iga Swiatek and Ash Barty’s head-to-head record
- 2022 Adelaide International SF – Ash Barty defeated Iga Swiatek, 6-2, 6-4
- 2021 Madrid Open 3R – Ash Barty defeated Iga Swiatek, 7-5, 6-4
Putting those lessons to good use, Swiatek eased past the Indonesian number one.
What Janice Tjen said about Ash Barty comparisons
Swiatek isn’t the only one who has recognised the similarities between Tjen and Barty, as Tjen herself said this during an interview with the WTA Tour website last year.
“I have been hearing that a lot,” she said about the comparisons with Barty.
“She’s, I would say, my role model.
“I would watch a little bit of her matches and try to copy what works for me, what’s not, and just trying to understand her game a little bit more.”
The more Tjen can copy from Barty, the better, as the Aussie reached world number one and won multiple Grand Slam titles…
Iga Swiatek reacts on social media after reaching Qatar Open 3R
Taking her place in round three, Swiatek posted the following message on Instagram.
“First match and a good start at the Qatar Open,” she said.
“On to the next one.”
Swiatek is enjoying her time in Qatar as she so often does.
During her on-court interview, the Pole explained just how much she enjoys the tournament in Doha.
“I love this place. On the court and off the court, I always have the best time here,” said Swiatek.
“I feel it’s a great place to come, and just focus on the world, there’s not much going around, especially coming after Melbourne, it’s much more peaceful, and I really love the family atmosphere. It’s great, and I love it here.”
She’s a two-time Qatar Open champion (WTA 1000), and boasts a mightily impressive 13-2 record at the event.
- 2022 Qatar Open champion – Defeated Anett Kontaveit in F
- 2024 Qatar Open champion – Defeated Elena Rybakina in F
Swiatek wants to win a third title in 2026, and spurred on by her vocal Polish fans, she may do just that.
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“Honestly, knowing Polish fans, I don’t feel like I need to encourage them, because they are everywhere, always,” she said.
“I am grateful for that, and not only Polish fans, but also fans from here and other countries. I feel like there is more and more support for me every year.
“I don’t take it for granted, so thank you guys, and see you tomorrow.”
Swiatek will return to take on Australia’s Daria Kasatkina on Wednesday, February 11.
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