Image source: Instagram/@iga.swiatek
Iga Swiatek, the 2022 US Open champion, is determined to make a strong comeback this year after her unexpected exit in the fourth round of the 2023 tournament. The Polish tennis star lost to Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko last year, which also cost her the world No. 1 ranking. This setback was a big blow, especially after such a successful 2022.
Iga Swiatek, however, didn’t let the defeat define her. She quickly regrouped and ended the season on a high note by winning the WTA Finals, reclaiming her top spot in the rankings. As she gears up for the US Open this year, Swiatek says she feels a sense of freedom. The pressure she felt last year has lifted, and she’s now focusing on her game with a fresh perspective.
“Last year, I felt like I had to defend everything – my title, my ranking, all my points,” Iga Swiatek shared with reporters in New York. “It was like carrying a heavy load. But this year, it’s different. I’m more focused on what I need to do on the court, step by step. My expectations aren’t as high as they were before.”
Even though she secured five titles this year, including her fourth French Open victory, Swiatek admits the season has been tough. She’s faced challenges, like a disappointing bronze at the Paris Olympics and a recent loss to Aryna Sabalenka in Cincinnati. But Swiatek is staying positive.
“It’s been a really intense season. After the Olympics, things got tough,” she said. “But I feel my best when I’m focused on improving my game, not just on the results. I’m sticking to that mindset going forward.”
Iga Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam winner and the top seed in this year’s US Open, is set to begin her campaign on Tuesday against a qualifier. If all goes well, she could face American world No. 6, Jessica Pegula, in the quarterfinals.
Iga Swiatek’s journey at this year’s US Open is one to watch as she aims to reclaim her crown and solidify her status as the world’s top player.
