May 13, (THEWILL) – World number one Iga Swiatek continues her relentless 2024 form, dispatching veteran Angelique Kerber 7-5, 6-3 on Monday, to reach the quarter-finals of the Rome Open. The Polish star is yet to drop a set in her pursuit of a third Foro Italico crown ahead of her French Open title defence.
The 22-year-old Swiatek had to work hard against the 36-year-old German, a former world number one making an improbable run as the lowest-ranked player to reach the last 16 in Rome. After saving 5 set points, Kerber eventually succumbed in the opening set before Swiatek pulled away in the second.
In the other women’s last 16 match, Madison Keys’ 6-2, 6-1 victory over Sorana Cirstea was briefly halted when climate activists from Ultima Generazione (Last Generation) invaded the court. The protesters threw liquid and confetti before one attempted to glue themselves to the surface.
“It’s not the greatest feeling when you’re on the court, your first reaction is kind of your own safety,” lamented Keys afterwards. “Tournaments are going to have to figure out how to stop [these invasions].”
On the men’s side, defending champion Daniil Medvedev resumes his title bid against qualifier Hamad Medjedovic in a depleted draw missing Djokovic, Sinner and Alcaraz. Fourth seed Andrey Rublev was a shock early casualty.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
