Poland's Iga Świątek, current world number two and winner of four Grand Slams, spoke to AS before facing Spain in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals. In the interview, she highlighted her concern for the recovery of Paula Badosa, who has experienced a comeback season after dealing with various injuries. Świątek commented that he was initially concerned about whether Badosa would be able to return to her best level, but that he is happy to see her competing again in major tournaments such as the US Open. He assured that Paula is a very persevering person, and that determination deserves to be recognized. "Anyone who has that much strength and determination to come back deserves to be at the top," the Pole commented, although she also joked that she hopes Badosa won't play as well when they meet this week.
As for the loss of the world number one, Świątek does not consider it a big problem, although she admitted that it is a goal for her. "I'm not obsessed with being number one, I know that if I work well and focus on what I should, the results will come, and with them the possibility of regaining that position," she said.
On the reasons why she has lost the top spot, the Pole explained that she does not feel that her level has dropped, as she reached the semifinals in Cincinnati and the quarterfinals at the US Open. However, she acknowledged that she needed a break after that tournament, which allowed Aryna Sabalenka to close in the rankings. "I knew I would lose the number one ranking, but it was something I needed to do," she added.
Iga also addressed the pressure of being the face of the new era of tennis, noting that while it's not always easy, she knows how to handle it well. "I get stronger with every challenge, and although sometimes it doesn't feel like it, I don't think I've ever been softer. The challenges get more complicated, but I focus on the positive," she explained.
As for her concerns about tennis, Świątek pointed out that the schedule and mandatory tournaments are an aspect that worries her a lot. "Many players are not able to play all the tournaments that are required, and that is something that should change," she opined. Despite the changes in balls and surfaces, for her the most important thing is the amount of obligations players have to fulfill.
Finally, he spoke of his admiration for Rafa Nadal, who will retire soon. Świątek confessed that he would love to be able to see his last week on the circuit, although he will not be able to do so because he has to start the preseason. "Rafa has had a huge impact on my career, he has inspired me a lot. I'm going to miss him on the court, but I know his decision to retire is the right one. He has played at an incredible level for so many years and now he deserves to enjoy life outside of tennis," concluded the world number two.
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