Swiatek breaks title drought with victory over Rybakina in Toronto

Iga Swiatek marked the start of her 2023 season with a commanding victory over Elena Rybakina at the National Bank Open in Toronto. The seventh-seeded Pole opened the scoring in the first set with a break point opportunity, converting as Rybakina succumbed to two early double faults. Swiatek extended her winning run with a second set break after two missed backhands from Rybakina.

The world number two held her nerve to secure her first title since September, dedicating the win to those facing unfair criticism in a post-match ceremony. "Just keep pushing, keep growing, keep focusing on yourself because you know what’s best for you. Always remember what’s ahead and what might be possible," Swiatek stated.

In the men's draw, Ben Shelton of the United States successfully defended his title at the Montreal event. Shelton, who has never dropped a set during the tournament, defeated compatriot Brandon Nakashima 6-3, 7-6 (4). This marks Shelton's second consecutive win at the event, becoming only the fourth man to achieve this feat since the year 2000, joining Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal.

Shelton attributed his success to his dedicated preparation and mental fortitude, stating: "For me to play the way that I played this week to go through this draw speaks to the work I have been putting in. It also speaks to my mental toughness, my ability to focus through everything that was going on this week."