In a stunning upset at the Australian Open, 19-year-old Czech player Linda Noskova emerged victorious against world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in a thrilling third-round encounter. Noskova’s remarkable comeback secured her a 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 win, marking the biggest victory of her career.
Reflecting on the intense match, Noskova shared her thoughts, stating, “I was a little shaky, obviously. I didn’t hit two first serves but I pulled out an ace, but it’s tough sometimes to bring it. [My team] helped me a lot, they were supporting me, and I’m so glad I can have this for all of us.”
Swiatek, the top seed, exited the Australian Open in the third round, facing an unexpected defeat that marked her earliest Grand Slam exit since Wimbledon 2022. The Polish player had a challenging draw, overcoming tough opponents like Sofia Kenin and Danielle Collins before encountering Noskova.
The match initially seemed to favor Swiatek, who secured the opening set 6-3 with her powerful groundstrokes and relentless pressure. However, Noskova, undeterred by her lack of Grand Slam experience, showcased top-tier tennis on the big stage.
Noskova’s brilliant cross-court winner in the second set signaled a shift in momentum, leading to a crucial break at 4-3. Swiatek appeared fatigued, allowing the Czech player to capitalize on the opportunity. Despite a delay as Swiatek took an extended break off-court, Noskova maintained her composure and secured the second set.
The third set unfolded as a drama-filled encounter, with Noskova breaking Swiatek’s serve early on, causing anticipation among the crowd. A brief stoppage due to a spectator’s health issue didn’t derail Noskova’s determination. Swiatek struggled with her first serve, faced break points, and received a warning for time violations.
As Noskova sealed the victory, she entered her first-ever Grand Slam fourth round, while Swiatek faced questions about missed opportunities in Melbourne. The women’s draw continues to showcase the depth of talent, with emerging players like Noskova making a significant impact on the Grand Slam stage.
Noskova at the Australian Open, ranking, and results in 2024
Now the world no.50, Noskova has achieved a 7-1 match record in 2024. The Czech is currently playing at the Australian Open where she bested the world no.34 Marie Bouzkova 6-1 7-5, the world no.206 Mccartney Kessler 6-3 1-6 6-4 and the world no.1 Iga Swiatek 3-6 6-3 6-4.
Linda Noskova will square off with the world no.23 Elina Svitolina in the 4th round on Monday at 1:30 pm on Margaret Court Arena. In the past, they have never competed against each other as of now in top events.
Iga Swiatek in 2024
WWWLWWWWLW Now ranked no.1, the Pole played her last match on the 20th of January when she capitulated to world no.50 Linda Noskova 3-6 6-3 6-4 in the 3rd round of the Australian Open (draw).
At the moment, during this season the Pole has achieved an overall 7-1 match record. Swiatek has won 1 title in Australia.
Linda Noskova and Iga Swiatek faced off only 2 times. Their actual record is 1-1. Previously, the last time they squared off, Linda Noskova won 3-6 6-3 6-4 in the 3rd round in Melbourne (Australian Open) on the 20th of January 2024.
In the following video you can watch the key moments of their match.
Linda Noskova and Iga Swiatek |
| Embed from Getty Images |
