Iga Swiatek honours Olympian father with victory in Korea Open final against Ekaterina Alexandrova

World No. 2 Swiatek made reference to her father’s achievements as she claimed the 25th WTA title of her career on her debut at the Korea Open.

It could have been a different story for the six-time Grand Slam champion after losing the opening set rather emphatically, but Swiatek went on to win 1-6 7-6(3) 7-5.

“I’m happy I could win here because of the family history,” said Swiatek afterwards.

“My dad didn’t win at the Olympics, but at least I won this tournament, so hopefully he’s going to come next year to enjoy everything.”

Swiatek previously spoke about her family’s connection to Seoul after beating Sorana Cirstea in the first round, reflecting proudly on her father’s achievements.

“The Olympics in 1988 were the highlight of his career, and he’s been telling us stories about it since me and my sister were kids,” Swiatek said after the match.

“So I’m happy to explore this city – he’s been talking about being here as a great adventure. I play a different sport, but still, we’re at the Olympic venue, and I’m surprised by how the whole city is still appreciating the Olympic tradition.

“It’s great, because this event is the best the world has in any area. Playing here for sure is an honour.”

The final was a bruising match for the world No. 2, who was broken three times in an opening set that went in Alexandrova’s favour after a mere 31 minutes.

Alexandrova continued to battle hard in the second set and was 15-30 ahead on Swiatek’s serve with the score at 6-5, before Swiatek recovered to take a crucial hold.

The Pole won the tie-break relatively comfortably, taking it 7-3, but Alexandrova pushed Swiatek all the way in a gripping decider.

Swiatek was broken early in the third set, before breaking back at 3-3, and then battling hard to emerge victorious and claim the title.

“Honestly, I don’t know how I won it, because you were just playing great. I just tried to stay alive,” Swiatek added to Alexandrova.

Swiatek is now 25-5 in WTA finals for her career.

Coverage of Sunday’s final round of matches gets under way at 20:00 UK time on TNT Sports 4.