Tennis-Stellar Swiatek poised for more hard court success in Melbourne

FILE PHOTO: Tennis - United Cup - Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney, Australia - January 6, 2023 Poland's Iga Swiatek reacts during her semi final match against Jessica Pegula of the U.S. REUTERS/Jaimi Joy

(Reuters) -The Australian Open women's tournament has thrown up plenty of surprises over the years but it is hard to see anyone other than Poland's imperious Iga Swiatek lifting the trophy after an outstanding 2022 season.

Still only 21, Swiatek has quickly established herself as the player no one else wants to face. She led the WTA Tour with 67 match wins and eight titles, including two Grand Slams, and strung together a 37-match winning run from February to July.