The 24-year-old from Poland who already owns six major titles — and needs only an Australian Open trophy to complete a career Grand Slam — has returned to her elite status, not to mention returned to No. 2 in the rankings, behind only Aryna Sabalenka and ahead of Coco Gauff.

Third-ranked Iga Swiatek captured the Cincinnati Open title for the first time by defeating No. 7 Jasmine Paolini 7-5, 6-4 on Monday night.

Six-time Grand Slam Winner Iga Swiatek triumphs in her first-ever Cincinnati Open Title. Beats Jasmin Paolini, without dropping a single set throughout.

Recent U.S. Open champions Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff lead the women's field when singles play begins Sunday at Flushing Meadows.

The forehand that grazed the sideline, the temple tap to her team, the sprint around the court. All of it pointed to a player in Iga Swiatek who is as composed as she is ruthless.

Iga Swiatek arrives at the U.S. Open with her sights set on a seventh Grand Slam title and a potential return to world number one to cap what she calls a remarkable year of redemption following "the worst experience of my life".

Around 8 p.m. Monday, Iga Swiatek was holding up her Cincinnati Open championship trophy. Around 8 a.m. Tuesday, she was getting ready for her mixed doubles match at the U.S. Open in New York City. It’s been a quick turnaround.