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Swiatek Powers Past Mertens in China Open Thriller
9 Oct
Summary
- Swiatek rallied from a set down to defeat Vekic in a tough third-round match.
- Mertens achieved her first win against Gauff to reach the quarterfinals.
- Swiatek leads their head-to-head rivalry 2-0 with previous straight-set wins.

Eighth seed Iga Swiatek will compete against 13th seed Elise Mertens in the China Open quarterfinals on October 9, 2026, held at the National Tennis Center in Beijing. Swiatek showcased her determination in a previous round, recovering from a set and double break down to defeat Donna Vekic. She then secured a dominant 6-1, 6-3 victory over Iva Jovic.
Mertens enters this match having achieved a notable upset against third seed Coco Gauff. This marked Mertens' first win against Gauff in their prior encounters and secured her a quarterfinal berth. Mertens displayed strong form, winning 6-3, 6-3 against Gauff.
The head-to-head record favors Swiatek, who has won both previous matches against Mertens in straight sets. Swiatek, a former champion in Beijing, holds a strong 24-6 record in WTA 1000 quarterfinals.