Controversial Call Mars Świątek’s Australian Open Quarterfinal Victory

MELBOURNE, Australia — A controversial umpiring decision overshadowed Iga Świątek‘s dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory over Emma Navarro in the Australian Open quarterfinals Wednesday, sparking debate about tennis’ video review rules.

The incident occurred during the fifth game of the second set with Świątek leading 2-1. Navarro’s shot appeared to bounce twice before Świątek returned it, but the chair umpire awarded the point to the Polish world No. 1. Navarro continued play without stopping to challenge the call, and later requested a video review after the point ended — a move not permitted under current rules.

“I didn’t stop the play, so I couldn’t ask for VAR after the point ended. I asked the umpire if I could request video review, but I didn’t get permission,” Navarro said in her post-match press conference, as reported by The Tennis Letter.

The American player emphasized she held no ill will toward Świątek, saying, “Everything happened so fast. I don’t know if Iga saw the ball bounce twice or not. The umpire has to make that decision. It’s hard to blame anyone. It’s a tough call. The rules should just be different.”

Navarro, ranked eighth in the WTA, suggested rule changes to allow players to request video reviews after points conclude. “You should be able to ask for VAR after the point ends. Everything happened so quickly. I couldn’t clearly see if the ball bounced before Iga hit it. You also have that thought in the back of your mind that you need to keep playing because you might still win the point,” she explained.

Despite the controversy, Świątek maintained her focus, dropping just three games in the match. The three-time Grand Slam champion will face another American, Coco Gauff, in the semifinals.

The incident has reignited discussions about tennis’ challenge system, with many calling for expanded video review options similar to other sports. Currently, players must stop play immediately to challenge a call, a rule some argue puts undue pressure on competitors during fast-paced rallies.

Świątek’s dominant performance continues her strong start to 2025, as she seeks her first Australian Open title. The 23-year-old has lost just 15 games through five matches in Melbourne.