Swiatek’s service game had not been rock solid, while the quicker courts at Melbourne Park have historically led to problems against aggressive opponents.
That always promised to be a bad combination against 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina, who ruthlessly took advantage in Wednesday’s contest.
Rybakina, 26, could not find rhythm with her serve in a first set which started with the pair exchanging breaks.
A low first-serve percentage of 41% was uncharacteristic, but she had enough pace and aggression in her groundstrokes to rush Swiatek.
That was demonstrated in the crucial 12th game. Rybakina fought back from 0-30 with deep returning – drawing loose sprays from Swiatek – and explosive winners to take the opener.
Momentum stayed with Rybakina as she immediately took control of the second set.
In perfect 22C sunny conditions following Tuesday’s heatwave, her groundstrokes continued to fly through the court and Swiatek was unable to solve the problem facing her.
Rybakina, runner-up in 2023, is guaranteed to face an American in Thursday’s semi-finals, with sixth seed Jessica Pegula or fourth seed Amanda Anisimova playing each other in the remaining quarter-final.
