Close Call at Melbourne: Swiatek Survives a Hair-Trigger Net Shot
22 January 2026
Match context and result
In Melbourne, world No. 2 Iga Swiatek moved into the Australian Open third round by defeating Czech Marie Bouzkova in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3, in about 1 hour and 19 minutes.
Near-miss at the net
During a fierce rally at the net, Bouzkova lunged to strike the ball, and her racquet came alarmingly close to Swiatek's face, triggering a quick reflex save from the Pole as the crowd gasped.
The moment raised questions about Bouzkova's risk in that instant, but Swiatek's composure returned to seal the win.
Swiatek maintained aggressive, precise tennis, underscoring that she remains on track for Melbourne glory and a potential Grand Slam title.
Punchline 1: That was a close shave; Swiatek dodged the racket’s near-miss with the reflexes of a caffeinated cat.
Punchline 2: In tennis, the net is serious business — it's where drama meets highlight reels.
