Świątek Falls, But Another Pole Reaches Australian Open Semifinals
The Australian Open 2026 is unfolding its eleventh day of main competition, bringing mixed fortunes for Polish tennis. The tournament saw the exit of Iga Świątek, who faced Jelena Rybakina in a highly anticipated match. Świątek held her own until the score reached 5-5 in the first set. However, Rybakina, the reigning champion from last year’s WTA Finals, seized control and took the match 7-5, 6-1. This victory secured her spot in the semifinals.
Despite Świątek’s elimination, Polish fans found excitement elsewhere on the court. As Świątek concluded her match, Jan Zieliński, another Polish representative, was competing alongside British player Luke Johnson. They’re notably known for their success at the United Cup.
Jan Zieliński’s Remarkable Performance
Zieliński and Johnson faced a challenging road in their campaign, nearly getting eliminated in the first round. They saved a match point in their opening match against the duo of Rinky Hijikata and Tristan Schoolkate. However, they found their rhythm as the tournament progressed.
Defeating the Fourth-Seeded Pair
In today’s match against the fourth-seeded team of Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic, Zieliński and Johnson started strong. They capitalized on Pavic’s service issues, quickly jumping to a 3-0 lead. Although Arevalo and Pavic fought back to equalize, the first set was decided by a tense tiebreaker.
- Set Score: Zieliński/Johnson 7:6(5)
During the second set, Zieliński and Johnson maintained their momentum. They broke their opponents’ serve twice, establishing a 5-2 lead. Zieliński served for the match and sealed their victory decisively.
- Final Score: Zieliński/Johnson 7:6(5), 6:2
This victory propels them into the semifinals, where they will contest against the Australian duo of Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans.
Looking Ahead
As Iga Świątek departs the tournament, the eyes of Polish tennis now turn to Zieliński and Johnson. Their upcoming semifinal match presents an opportunity for redemption and a chance to keep Poland in the spotlight at the Australian Open 2026.
