SWIATEK DEFEATS BEJLEK IN TORONTO OPENING MATCH

Iga Swiatek defeated Sára Bejlek 6-0, 6-3 in her opening match at the National Bank Open in Toronto on 5 August 2026. The former world No. 1 controlled much of the contest, winning the first set decisively before facing a stronger challenge in the second. Swiatek described her performance as uncertain, stating she did not know how she had won the match. The victory marked her 24th win of the 2026 season and her first in Toronto in four years.

Swiatek arrived in Toronto early to attend an Ariana Grande concert at TD Garden in Boston from 23-26 July, where Grande performed material from her album "Eternal Sunshine". The two-hour flight from Boston to Toronto enabled Swiatek to begin her tournament preparation. Swiatek expressed respect for Grande's talent, citing the singer's performance in the film "Wicked" as a particular influence. The five-time Grand Slam champion is also known to be a supporter of Taylor Swift, having attended the artist's Eras Tour following her 2024 Roland Garros victory.

Swiatek said she was pleased to return to competition in Canada and to open the tournament with a win. She stated her focus was on building momentum through the remainder of the North American hard-court swing. Swiatek said every match was important at that stage of the season and that she aimed to find her rhythm and improve with each subsequent round.