Iga Swiatek was many people’s favourite to win the US Open this year, but her journey was cut short by Amanda Anisimova.
In what was a rematch of the Wimbledon final from earlier this summer, the American got her much-deserved revenge in one of the most comprehensive wins of the tournament to date.
She was unflappable against an opponent who embarrassed her on the biggest stage, and will now compete in the final for a chance to truly exorcise her demons.
Swiatek, meanwhile, will be hoping to ensure that this defeat does not derail her progress.
After all, it has been a remarkable summer of success for the 24-year-old, and one which has seen her return to her rightful spot near the top of the world rankings.
And yet, despite all of this progression, one high-profile coach has offered some advice for her going into the final leg of the season.
Iga Swiatek told to copy Roger Federer
Taking to X, it was Rick Macci who was keen to praise Swiatek, while also outlining one potential area for improvement.
As a man who made his name coaching the likes of Serena and Venus Williams as youngsters, he certainly knows what it takes to develop greatness.
And given what she has already won at such a young age, Swiatek is certainly in that mould.
However, no player is perfect, and despite a fine summer laden with silverware, Macci still had some pointers.
He wrote: “Everybody is going to lose and fail but the Punisher the rest of the year will sail. Number one is down the street as she will grow stronger from this defeat. Her game is getting better and better and I would love to see her slice backhand become like Federer.”
Elsewhere, Aryna Sabalenka has been told she should be worried about Anisimova in the US Open final, and what she might bring to trouble her.
When is Iga Swiatek’s next tournament?
With Swiatek having lost earlier this week, she has been afforded extra time to take to the practice court and work on the kind of things that Macci hopes she can gain.
And whilst this is not the same as playing competitive matches in tournaments, it is arguably equally important to lay the foundations for alternative skills that can then be employed in the biggest moments.
With that in mind, a training block is expected for the six-time Grand Slam champion, with her next tournament not starting until the 15th of September.
Swiatek is expected to return at the Korea Open, which is a WTA 500-level event.
