Iga Swiatek vs. Liudmila Samsonova
World No. 1 Iga Swiatek underlined her title credentials with a composed 6-2, 7-5 victory over Liudmila Samsonova in just under two hours. From the outset, Swiatek demonstrated superior court coverage and tactical intelligence, dictating play with her trademark heavy topspin. Her serve held steady under pressure, winning 80% of her service games compared to Samsonova’s 50%.
Swiatek’s dominance was reflected in the stats — she won 56% of total points and broke Samsonova’s serve five times. Despite a slightly lower first serve percentage (54% to Samsonova’s 62%), she made up for it by attacking Samsonova’s second serve relentlessly, winning 72% of those points.
Samsonova struggled with consistency, firing 38 unforced errors against only 16 winners. Swiatek’s ability to defend and turn defense into offense neutralized Samsonova’s power, forcing her into risky shots. The Pole’s patience in the longer rallies paid off, particularly in key moments during the second set.
The second set saw more resistance, with Samsonova breaking twice and even holding a 5-4 lead. However, Swiatek reeled off three consecutive games, showcasing her mental resilience and ability to raise her level when it mattered most.
This victory propels Swiatek into the semi-finals, with her eyes firmly on a maiden Wimbledon crown — a surface that has often been her Achilles heel but seems to suit her more each year.
Mirra Andreeva vs. Belinda Bencic
In a dramatic contest that stretched over two hours, Belinda Bencic held her nerve to defeat rising star Mirra Andreeva 7-6(3), 7-6(2). Both players served exceptionally well, each winning 92% of their service games — a rare feat at this level.
Bencic’s experience shone through in both tiebreaks, where her controlled aggression contrasted with Andreeva’s youthful impatience. Though Andreeva produced more winners (35 to 20), her 37 unforced errors undermined her effort, compared to Bencic’s more measured 24.
The match was a serving clinic, particularly from Andreeva, who fired six aces and won 73% of her first-serve points. However, her second serve proved more vulnerable, winning only 40% of points compared to Bencic’s 55%.
Bencic’s backhand down the line was a weapon all match, often catching Andreeva wrong-footed at the baseline. The Swiss player also proved more effective at the net, winning an impressive 83% of points there.
Ultimately, it was Bencic’s mental toughness that decided the match. She saved a crucial break point late in the second set and stayed composed under pressure, booking her place in the Wimbledon semi-finals for the first time since 2014.
🔎 Conclusion:
Day 1 of the Wimbledon 2025 WTA quarter-finals delivered two high-quality battles showcasing both experience and emerging talent. Swiatek continues her march towards the title, while Bencic’s grit keeps her dream alive. As for Liudmula Samsonova, the dark horse after Rybakina’s exit is no more.