Iga Swiatek wins National Bank Open, ends title drought

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Iga Swiatek finally ended an 11-month WTA title drought, besting Elena Rybakina in dominant fashion, 6-2, 6-3, to reign supreme at the National Bank Open in Toronto, Ontario, on Aug. 14, 2026.

The Polish ace last won a WTA Tour title on Aug. 18, 2025, at the Cincinnati Open before enduring a turbulent campaign without a WTA 500 or WTA 1000 trophy for 359 days.

Hungrier than ever, Swiatek entered Sobeys Stadium with one goal in mind: lift the coveted golden plaque in Toronto and get back on track.

That’s exactly what she did, as Swiatek delivered a masterclass for the ages, outplaying and outmaneuvering Rybakina in straight sets.

Fresh off a nail-biting three-set thriller against Elina Svitolina, Swiatek picked up where she left off, carrying all the momentum she needed against the in-form Rybakina, who entered the championship match brimming with confidence.

Swiatek kicked off the final on a high note by neutralizing Rybakina’s signature serve, stepping inside the baseline to hit forehand returns on the rise.

Entering the final, Rybakina held the record for the most aces in the tournament, but her strongest weapon suddenly vanished as Swiatek and her camp adjusted well.

Aside from hitting Rybakina’s serves on the rise, Swiatek absorbed their full force by standing her ground and returning the ball flat.

That disciplined approach helped Swiatek secure two early breaks of serve in the first set, which was enough to propel her to a momentum-boosting 1-0 advantage.

Swiatek went for the kill in the second set, relying on unpredictable approaches to the net that forced Rybakina to play defensively.

Rybakina showed signs of life after targeting Swiatek’s backhand to win several points, but the Polish star quickly answered with deep slices down the line.

In the final deuce of the eighth game, Swiatek hit a well-placed backhand return winner, moving within a game of the title.

“As I said, I would like to dedicate this title to everyone who’s dealing with unfair judgement and hate,” Swiatek said during the trophy presentation.

“Just keep pushing, keep growing, and keep focusing on yourself because you know what’s the best for you. Always remember what’s ahead and what might be possible. So, here we are.”