Iga Swiatek praised Marie Bouzková after their third round match at the French Open.
After coming within one point of losing to Naomi Osaka in her previous match, the World number one was keen to have a more straightforward performance against the Czech player.
The 25-year-old showed some of the form that saw her upset 29th seed Veronika Kudermetova in round one.
Bouzková also owns 10 wins against top 10 players and made Swiatek work for her one hour and 33 minute victory.
What did Iga Swiatek say about Marie Bouzková at the French Open?
Swiatek was pushed in the first set, but ultimately came through it and any restraints on her game were lifted as she took control of set two.
She broke Bouzkova’s serve four times and hit double the amount of winners as she sealed a 6-4, 6-2 win.
Post match Swiatek, who plays Anastasia Potapova next, explained what the 25-year-old did well during their first ever meeting.
“She’s a difficult player, I know she’s really good at defence,” the four-time Grand Slam champion said. “Every ball would come back. I knew I had to be patient and solid and not rush it. I’m happy that I did that.”
Normal business has resumed for Iga Swiatek
Though she was challenged by Bouzková, Swiatek did not look in danger of losing the third round contest at Roland Garros.
This in contrast to her second round match with Osaka, who squandered match points before the Pole won 7-6, 1-6, 7-5.
Swiatek was seen crying in the locker room after a physically and emotionally taxing match, but the 22-year-old was certainly more upbeat after reaching round four in Paris once again.
“Really good. I enjoyed playing today,” she said. “I feel good physically. I had a day off yesterday. I don’t feel like this match stayed with me. We’ll see at the end of the tournament.
“Today’s match was solid. I’m happy that I finished in two sets and closed it in an hour and 30 minutes. It’s a good thing.”
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