LONDON — Iga Swiatek expects one of her toughest tests of this year’s Wimbledon when she faces Alexandra Eala in the third round, saying the Filipino’s versatile style of play will become even more dangerous on grass.
The defending champion has advanced through the opening two rounds but acknowledged she will need to elevate her performance against the rising 20-year-old, whose game presents a very different challenge from her previous opponents.
“I don’t yet know her game on grass very well,” Swiatek told reporters. “Of course, I will watch some videos.”
The former world No. 1 said she is already familiar with Eala from their previous meetings but believes the faster surface will make the left-hander’s strengths even more difficult to contain.
“I know how she plays because we have faced each other before,” Swiatek said. “She has a fairly complicated game.”
“On grass, I think it will be even harder to handle, especially because of the surface. She will know how to use her strengths, her variations and all aspects of her game.”
Swiatek said preparation will be crucial as she looks to counter an opponent capable of constantly changing the pace and direction of rallies.
“I will prepare and be ready,” she said. “It will be a real challenge for me because this type of game never allows you to find a rhythm.”
“I will have to be ready to face all kinds of shots.”
The match will mark another important test for Swiatek as she attempts to defend her Wimbledon title during a season in which she has struggled to consistently reproduce the dominant form that made her one of the WTA Tour’s leading players. A victory over Eala would send the Pole into the fourth round and keep her title defense on track.
