French Champions Swiatek, Krejcikova Cruise at Tokyo Olympics; Osaka, Barty Set For Debuts

The last two French Open champions – Barbora Krejcikova and Iga Swiatek – shared the women’s spotlight on opening day at the Tokyo Olympics on Saturday, and neither disappointed.

Swiatek was the first match on Centre and the 20-year-old rolled past the double faulting Mona Barthel 6-2, 6-2 in 67 minutes. Barthel tossed in 10 doubles to help in the Poland No. 1’s Olympic debut.

“My Dad’s told me a lot about the Olympics,” said Swiatek who dad competed in the sculls in 1988. “I couldn’t actually imagine it properly, but for sure it’s a special event. It’s different than any other tournament. I know that right now I really feel the Olympic vibe.”

Krejcikova only was on the court for 30 minutes because Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan withdrew from their match due to an ankle problem at 5-2 down.

Belinda Bencic ousted Jessica Pegula in a good win 6-3, 6-3. Maria Sakkari advanced over Anett Kontaveit 7-5, 6-2. And Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova weathered the heat to smash fellow French finalist Sara Errani 6-0, 6-1.

Tomorrow, it’s a huge day with the Top 3 women in the world in action. Naomi Osaka makes her long-awaited return to face Zheng Saisai. World No. 1 Ash Barty opens play on Centre Court against Spain’s Sara Sorribes Tormo.

Aryna Sabalenka, Petra Kvitova, Elina Svitolina, Garbine Muguruza and Karolina Pliskova will also be in singles action.

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