Iga Swiatek’s use of the forehand has been compared to that of Casper Ruud after the two stars averaged the same speed for the shot at the 2023 French Open on Thursday.
In analysing Swiatek’s 6-4 6-0 second-round victory over Claire Liu on Court Philippe-Chatrier, Eurosport’s Barbara Schett made the observation in The Cube that Swiatek’s average speed with the forehand was 129km an hour in the first set, matching Ruud in his win over Giulio Zeppieri.
Ad “Wow, that is absolutely a surprise to me,” remarked former Roland-Garros winner Mats Wilander. Roland-Garros'Wow, that's a surprise!' — Reaction to Swiatek having same forehand speed as men's star2 HOURS AGO “I mean, Casper hits with a little bit more spin, I would think.” In total, Swiatek made 24 winners, doubling Liu's 12.
Explaining the reason why Swiatek is using more intensity in her shots, Wilander said: “I think it's because they're pushing her.