World number one Iga Swiatek won her third French Open and fourth Grand Slam title on Saturday with an epic three-set victory over gallant Karolina Muchova in the final at Roland Garros. 

The 22-year-old Pole came through 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to become the first woman since Justine Henin in 2007 to win back-to-back French Opens. Swiatek also won in Paris in 2020 and 2022 and added the US Open also last year. However, she achieved victory the hard way, giving up a set and 3-0 lead before recovering twice from breaks down in the decider.

Swiatek after receiving the trophy said, “Thank you guys! First of all congrats to Karolina, since we first played I know we were going to play tough matches. I was really struck with your variety on court. I know we are going to have many more finals. Congrats to your team as well. I would not be here without my team, thank you guys. I know we won this tournament but it is not easy. Thank you to my family as well, so many people have come from Poland I really feel the love. I know I have said this every year. It is not really about the performance I really love being here – it’s my favorite place on tour.”

Muchova however received an ovation and a roar of applause from the crowd. She pushed Swiatek all the way. She lifted the trophy aloft, getting slightly emotional and said: “I will try to keep it short as it is emotional. This is incredible, thank you everyone. It’s been amazing three weeks in Paris. This was so close but so far but this is what happens when you play the best." 

Congratulating Iga, Muchova added, "I want to congratulate you once again and your team. I want to thank everyone behind the curtains as well. I would like to thank each one of you, thank you I think I wouldn’t be standing here if you didn’t push me in each match. I have never lived this and it is unbelievable. Last one to my team, my box. This is the hardest one. When I look at those people I feel like I am the winner so thank you.”