Tennis-Swiatek's struggles continue as Collins ends Rome title defence

Tennis - Italian Open - Foro Italico, Rome, Italy - May 10, 2025 Danielle Collins of the U.S. in action during her round of 32 match against Poland's Iga Swiatek REUTERS/Aleksandra Szmigiel

ROME (Reuters) -Holder Iga Swiatek crashed out of the Italian Open to American Danielle Collins after a 6-1 7-5 third-round loss on Saturday in a major upset that will cost the Pole the world number two ranking as the defence of her French Open title looms.

Swiatek held a commanding 7-1 head-to-head record against Collins before the contest and yet another early defeat does not bode well for the 23-year-old, who has not won a tournament since her fourth triumph at Roland Garros last year.