The WTA Bad Homburg Open delivered high-stakes drama as fourth seed Iga Swiatek and top seed Jessica Pegula sealed straight-set victories on Tuesday, showcasing why they're favorites on the grass ahead of Wimbledon.
Swiatek's Grass Surge
After falling behind 2-4 against Victoria Azarenka, the 24-year-old Pole flipped the script. Swiatek broke back to level at 4-4, then edged the first set 6-4 by saving two break points in a tense finale. Never before having reached a grass-court final, she carried that momentum into the second set, trading breaks early before pulling away to seal the win with two service holds.
Pegula's Consistent Form
In another highlight, world number three Jessica Pegula dominated Czech qualifier Katerina Siniakova 6-2, 6-3. Pegula's precise down-the-line winners set the tone, and despite Siniakova's grass-court pedigree, the American broke for a 3-1 lead in set two and never looked back. Pegula now faces compatriot Emma Navarro in the quarterfinals.
Osaka's Ongoing Slump
Meanwhile, four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka's struggles continued as she fell 6-4, 6-4 to the American fifth seed. With grass season ramping up, Osaka will look to regroup before the next warm-up event.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
