Polish tennis sensation Iga Swiatek had a very eventful year. As a player, she experienced all the highs and lows that come with being a professional. Swiatek has overcome all obstacles to reach the pinnacle of success at a very young age. The mental health aspect of playing professionally paints a different picture, as Swiatek drew parallels between herself and Ash Barty.
Swiatek tasted success this year, even if it was not to the degree that she enjoyed last year. She won six titles, including a third one at the French Open. Swiatek capped off the year with back-to-back wins at the China Open and the WTA Finals in Cancun.
What just happened??? 😱 pic.twitter.com/hsSKfFq6wq
— Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) November 7, 2023
The Pole retook the top rank from Aryna Sabalenka and opened up about her feelings. Swiatek also spoke of Ash Barty, who retired from the sport at the peak of her career in 2022, aged 25. The former world number one had cited burnout from tennis.
Barty‘s retirement saw Swiatek climb to the top of the rankings for the first time. It also brought up difficult conversations surrounding mental health and the toll it takes on players. The tennis season is long, and the possibility of burnout is high. This is why Swiatek believes it is best to listen to one’s body and make the difficult choice to skip tournaments.
“Nobody said that we have to play until the age of 35, when we will barely be able to walk because of the wear and tear on our bodies. The other thing is that I don’t want to let it wear out like that,“ said the Pole (via Sportowefakty.wp.pl).
Iga Swiatek is easily one of the best players around today. She has also openly spoken of her admiration for Ash Barty, who led by example.
Iga Swiatek wanted to test herself against Ash Barty
Barty shocked the tennis world when she announced her sudden retirement from the sport. Iga directly benefited from Barty’s retirement, as she became the new world number one. However, Swiatek still rues not geting the chance to fight for the top rank.
The Pole felt that when Barty retired, she still had a lot to offer. “I was pretty sad I’m not going to be able to compete against her and maybe win,” said Swiatek.
Iga Swiatek and Ash Barty clashed against each other only twice before the Aussie retired. As of now, Barty has no intentions to return to tennis and is happy to spend time with her family. As for Swiatek, she is enjoying her reign at the top.