Iga Swiatek is back to her dominant best. The Polish star cruised past Jessica Pegula 6-1, 6-2 in just 67 minutes to reach her first individual semi-final of the season at the Italian Open in Rome.

It's been a challenging start to the year for the four-time French Open champion. Her only previous semi-final appearance came at the United Cup in January, where she represented Poland in the team event. But under new coach Francisco Roig, there have been clear signs of a resurgence.

Swiatek looked every bit the clay-court powerhouse who has dominated Roland Garros, overwhelming the fifth-seeded Pegula with heavy topspin and relentless power. The American was left searching for answers as Swiatek's game clicked into gear.

This commanding performance follows a similarly emphatic win over Naomi Osaka in the previous round. The message is clear: Swiatek is finding her rhythm at just the right time as she bids for a fourth Italian Open title.

Up next is Elina Svitolina, the seventh seed who battled back from a set down to upset Elena Rybakina 2-6, 6-4, 6-4. It promises to be a thrilling semi-final clash between two players in fine form.

On the men's side, Casper Ruud also secured his place in the semi-finals. The Norwegian overcame Karen Khachanov 6-1, 1-6, 6-2 in a match interrupted by a two-hour rain delay. Ruud dominated the opening set, lost momentum after the break, but regrouped to break Khachanov three times in the deciding set to seal victory.