Poland have cruised through their final group match of the United Cup, as a tantalising match-up with home country, Australia awaits. Hubert Hurkacz and Iga Swiatek are in tremendous form, but with Australia having Alex de Minaur at its disposal, the mixed doubles could be pivotal.
Today, it was Hurkacz that got the party started for the Polish team, defeating Tallon Griekspoor 6-3 7-6, continuing his red hot form, after spending the second half of last year on the sidelines. Understandably, he was very satisfied with his game.
“Quite happy with my performance. Tallon is a very difficult player to play against. He’s obviously big serve and then powerful forehand and coming to the net playing some really great volleys.
So I was pleased with my performance today.”
Despite defeating Alexander Zverev already this week, Hurkacz is aware, that taking on de Minaur will be a totally different challenge.
“Obviously Alex has been very successful last past years. He’s probably close to the highest ranking that he ever had. He’s really quick, moves around the court incredibly well. So it’s going to be a good challenge, especially with the Aussie crowd. It’s going to be a lot of fun, and I’m excited for the match.”
For Swiatek, she is also happy with her early form, but admitted it was a little easier today, after Hurkacz had taken the pressure off with his win.
“I’m also happy, because I feel like after first few games I improved my level, and I was more precise with my footwork. So I think it was an improvement comparing to the last match. Hubi also played amazing, you know, so I can come out on the court with big confidence, because he already kind of put us in the quarterfinals. So I could just play freely.”
The two players met in the semi-finals of Seoul last season, and it was a very comfortable win for Swiatek, 6-0 6-2. When asked about the upcoming encounter, Swiatek remained diplomatic though.
“I played against Maya in Seoul, but every match is a different story. So I kind of know what
her ball feels like, but obviously I’m pretty sure she also learned by also knowing how my ball feels like.
So I will need to prepare tactically by watching the last matches that she played. I’ll be ready.”
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