Iga Swiatek reacts after Italian Open defeat to Svitolina

She started by saying: “Yesterday’s match was demanding and of course I was hoping for a different result.”

That much was obvious, but it’s how she would react to what many might see as a crushing defeat that remained uncertain.

However, Swiatek’s framing of the loss showcases great maturity, as she added: “Nevertheless, playing here brought me genuine pleasure and I feel that thanks to the work we’ve put in recently, my form is improving. Rome is always special for me. The tennis, the fans and – let’s be honest – the food mean I can’t wait to return next year. Grazie!”

Then, chatting with reporters after the match, she echoed that sentiment, adding: “Looking from the perspective of how I felt even in the USA, the tournament in Rome is a step forward for me.

“Obviously, I want more, but I still enjoyed playing tennis. And that’s not so obvious and shouldn’t be taken for granted.”

Svitolina meanwhile has spoken about her plan going into her final clash with Gauff at the Italian Open.

Is Iga Swiatek now considered a Roland Garros favourite?

With her run in Rome, there’s a growing sense that Swiatek is back to her best.

She looked sharp all tournament until running into Svitolina, who was in great form and took down another top-five seed.

And even though she lost the final set 6-2, Swiatek managed to save an incredible 16 break points. It wasn’t as one-sided as the score might suggest.

Given her track record on clay, it’s tough to look past her. She’s already won four titles in Paris and knows how to manage these tournaments better than anyone else on tour.

Add in Aryna Sabalenka’s fitness concerns and the inconsistency of players like Coco Gauff and Elena Rybakina, and Swiatek starts to look like the safe pick for another French Open title.