US Open 2025: Swiatek powers through opener as Americans endure mixed fortunes

World number two Iga Swiatek began her quest for a second US Open crown with a commanding straight-sets win over Colombia’s Emiliana Arango in New York, Sport360NG reports.

The 24-year-old Pole, who lifted her first Wimbledon title last month, needed just over an hour to wrap up a 6-1 6-2 victory on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Swiatek struck 26 winners and dominated on serve, winning three-quarters of her points and never facing a break point.

“First matches are always tricky in terms of rhythm, but I felt solid,” said the six-time Grand Slam champion. “I wasn’t trying to overhit, just keeping things consistent.”

Swiatek, who won the Cincinnati Open in the build-up to Flushing Meadows, also reached the final of the new mixed doubles exhibition event alongside Norway’s Casper Ruud, narrowly losing to Italy’s Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori.

Against Arango, the 2022 US Open winner seized control early with a double break in the first set before racing away in the second to book a second-round meeting with Dutch player Suzan Lamens, ranked 66th in the world.

Elsewhere, French Open surprise semi-finalist Lois Boisson fell at the first hurdle, losing 3-6 7-6 (7-3) 6-2 to Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic. Russia’s Diana Shnaider, seeded 20th, also suffered an upset as Germany’s Laura Siegemund came through 7-6 (7-3) 2-6 6-3.

American ups and downs

It was a mixed day for the home players. Amanda Anisimova, the eighth seed, advanced with a 6-3 6-2 win over Australia’s Kim Birrell. Playing her first major since losing heavily to Swiatek in the Wimbledon final, the 23-year-old overcame a shaky start before reeling off the final five games to secure victory. She next faces Australian teenager Maya Joint.

“I was a little nervous but I wanted to enjoy myself. It feels good to be back,” said Anisimova, who lost in the opening round here a year ago.

Danielle Collins, however, endured another early exit. The 2019 Australian Open semi-finalist, struggling with a back problem, was swept aside 6-2 6-0 by Romania’s Jacqueline Cristian. The world number 50 will now meet American Ashlyn Krueger, who fought back to eliminate 26th seed Sofia Kenin 5-7 6-4 6-2.