Tennis-Swiatek downs Paolini to claim first Cincinnati Open title

Aug 18 (Reuters) - Iga Swiatek captured her first Cincinnati Open title on Monday by beating Jasmine Paolini 7-5 6-4, with the Pole third seed sending a powerful message ahead of the U.S. Open.

The six-times Grand Slam winner did not drop a set on her way to the title and was clinical in the final, converting all six of her break points to secure her 11th WTA 1000 crown and first since last year's Italian Open.

The win also ensures Wimbledon champion Swiatek will climb back to world number two, securing the second seed for the final major of the year at Flushing Meadows, where singles action begins on Sunday.

Earlier in the day, Spain's Carlos Alcaraz claimed the men's title after top seed Jannik Sinner retired in the first set.