“It was not as straightforward as the scoreline suggests,” Gauff told Sky Sports.
“I wasn’t nervous, but whenever you play someone so many times, it is hard to keep doing what you’ve been doing and also change it up. Today, I found a good balance.
“It feels great to be at home. I am alternating between my parents’ house and my own, depending on how late we finish. They live a bit closer, so it is nice to have that family support.”
The victory will take the two-time Grand Slam champion above former world number one Swiatek and up to third in the WTA rankings next week.
Gauff, currently ranked fourth in the world, will face the winner of Friday’s match between Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina.
“I haven’t played either this year, so it will be a good match-up to see where I am,” she added.
“I am going out there with the belief that I can win.”