Swiatek reappears with a resounding victory over Rybakina and with an important change in her game

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A week before the start of the 2026 tennis season, Iga Swiatek has already kicked off her preparation with a resounding victory against Elena Rybakina (6-3 6-3). However, this is all part of the exhibition matches taking place in Shenzhen, China. The Polish tennis player has shown a significant improvement in her serve by changing her technique, which could be crucial for her main goal next year: the Australian Open.

The match itself was a clinic by the number two in the WTA rankings. Drop shots, passing shots, winners... Everything was working for her. Rybakina could do little as she experienced firsthand what Iga had warned hours earlier at the press conference. "Everyone wants to be number one, so it would be fantastic to return to that position, but for now, I am focused on working and making some technical changes. If I focus on the process, the results will come," she stated.

DROPSHOT ALERT 🚨🚨🚨 pic.com/5SBw7xPk16

— Swiateking (@tennis_15love) December 26, 2025

One of these technical changes that she has implemented is in her serve. In fact, it is the most noticeable one. In her recent appearances in 2025, Swiatek had a much wider stance with her back foot during the serving motion, whereas in the match against Rybakina, she was seen with her feet much closer together. This allows for better balance, although the results of such changes are usually seen after several weeks.

Swiatek eases pressure ahead of the Australian Open

On a fast court like at the Australian Open, the serve is a key factor in achieving a significant result. Iga knows that the 'Major Down Under' is the only Grand Slam missing from her list of achievements, hence why she is working on these minor details to reach her full potential and attempt to complete the Career Grand Slam. Last year, she was eliminated in the semifinals by Madison Keys, who broke her serve up to eight times in just three sets.

Despite the expectations, Swiatek continues to ease the pressure off herself, stating, "I don't have any specific goals for any tournament. The season lasts eleven months, and you never know when you will reach your peak level. Let's go step by step and focus now on the tour ending at the Australian Open. The goal is to play well." She said all this with a big smile, aware of the great opportunity she has at hand.

Iga's first official appearance will be at the United Cup, starting on January 5th (she will play against Eva Lys), although she will first play another exhibition match against Xinyu Wang this Saturday to continue gaining rhythm. Additionally, on Sunday, she will play a mixed doubles match with Valentín Vacherot against Andrey Rublev and Elena Rybakina. So far, she could not have had a better comeback, in what could be a critical season to regain the throne of the women's circuit.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Swiatek reaparece con una contundente victoria ante Rybakina y con un cambio importante en su juego