Swiatek is now up against a crucial quarter-final match with Elena Rybakina, who was the finalist in Doha last year. Their rivalry has been closely fought, with Swiatek holding a 3-2 advantage in their hard-court encounters.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek has advanced to the quarterfinals of the Qatar Open with a 6-7 (1), 6-4, 6-4 victory over Linda Noskova.

Three-time defending Qatar Open champion Iga Swiatek scrapped her way past Czech youngster Linda Noskova on Wednesday to set up a quarter-final with last year's runner-up Elena Rybakina. Swiatek dropped a set in Doha for the first time since 2022 -- ending a run of 25 won in a row -- but recovered to advance 6-7 (1/7),