Iga Swiatek, tennis world no. 1, has strongly criticized the escalating wave of hate comments and criticism directed at her and her coaching team on social media. Following her impressive comeback win from one set down over Zheng Qinwen at the Western & Southern Open, Swiatek used her press conference to call for a more positive social media message.
World No. 1 urged the general public to contribute to a healthier online environment for the players as they sacrifice a lot day in and day out. She encouraged people to be more thoughtful and focus on the positive side of what the players are doing, rather than just focusing on their winning or losing.
Iga Swiatek addresses hate after her match:
“The amount of hate & criticism me & my team get after even losing a set is just ridiculous. I want to encourage people to be more thoughtful when they comment..”
Powerful statement from a great leader.
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 17, 2023
She added, “On the Internet, I feel like it’s getting worse and worse, the hate and the amount of comments that are really, like, straightforward and sometimes even a little bit mean.” She further expressed that if things didn’t change for the better, the Internet would cease to provide a secure space for players to browse and access content.
Swiatek has consistently borne the weight of unwarranted criticism on social media. Last year at the US Open, in the aftermath of her quarterfinal clash with Jessica Pegula, she faced unjust criticism despite winning the match 6-3, 7-6.
That’s why rich spoiled brats shouldn’t play tennis
— Alpha Male(He/Him) 🇺🇦 (@mrstealyomomy) September 8, 2022
That’s why rich spoiled brats shouldn’t play tennis
— Alpha Male(He/Him) 🇺🇦 (@mrstealyomomy) September 8, 2022
Iga Swiatek, including many top players, has expressed growing concern about the worsening negativity on the internet, highlighting the need for change. While acknowledging her limited influence over others’ thoughts, Swiatek hoped for a collective effort toward a more respectful online community, making it a ‘better place.’
Ons Jabeur joins Iga Swiatek, slams online gambling for hate
During the Cincinnati Open, Ons Jabeur offered her support to Iga Swiatek, who recently revealed she was facing backlash for dropping a set in her round of 16 matches. Swiatek’s victory over Qinwen Zheng, along with her post-match comments, found support from other players like Jabeur.
She expressed her solidarity by stating, “You win, you lose, you get hate messages no matter what you do.” Jabeur went on to speculate that much of this negativity likely originates from bettors who might have lost their bets. She stated that it was impossible to change their mentality.
Jabeur’s comments shed light on the challenges athletes face in the age of social media, where criticism can be unwarranted and harsh. Her call for kindness in the face of such negativity reflects a growing need for a more supportive and understanding online environment.
Swiatek’s willingness to address the issue and Jabeur’s support highlight the importance of acknowledging the mental toll that public scrutiny can take on athletes, even in the midst of their professional achievements.