'I'll Be Diplomatic': Swiatek Says What She Thinks About Rival Sabalenka
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Before the 2025 Qatar Open, Iga Swiatek was asked what she thinks of Aryna Sabalenka and outlined why their rivalry is important for the WTA Tour.
Swiatek and Sabalenka have contested some of the most exciting women's matches of the last few years. The most notable example was their extraordinary 2024 Madrid Open final, in which the Pole won after saving three match points.
Many consider that battle one of the best WTA contests ever. The enthralling shot-making and athleticism mesmerize fans when both women play at or near their best.
Animosity has existed in several rivalries in tennis history. However, Sabalenka has tried to avoid that by taking steps to be friendly to Swiatek off the court, including arranging for them to do a TikTok at the 2024 WTA Finals.
The four-time French Open champion was asked about Sabalenka in Doha before her opening match. Swiatek joked about trying to be diplomatic with her comments before saying they push each other in a way the WTA Tour needed.
"What do I think about Aryna? That’s a tough one (laughs). I’ll be diplomatic. No, I’m kidding. It’s nice to have such a great athlete as an opponent. We’re both pushing each other and we’re both creating some great entertainment sometimes when we’re playing against each other."
"I think we are something WTA has been kind of missing for a while because we have this great rivalry, and the fans are excited every time they see both of us."
"I think it’s great that we play tennis so well and just push each other, and that’s really helpful, for sure, in anybody’s career to have an opponent like that."
Last year's Qatar Open champion also praised their respective teams, saying they help push them to improve. Swiatek thinks Sabalenka's team is among the most professional on the WTA circuit.
"Well, I think Aryna’s team is one of the most professional I’ve seen on tour. They’re kinda taking care of everything, similar to me, I would say."
"I think because of the people we have around, we both can really progress and really become great athletes and without them, for sure, it would be much tougher because we need professional people and people with knowledge to guide us sometimes and show us what is right or wrong."
Swiatek only started working with coach Wim Fissette in October. However, she is happy with their progress and praised him for the new insights and ideas he has added to her game since joining.
Therefore, the important work of her and Sabalenka's teams being on Swiatek's mind is unsurprising. The details behind the scenes are crucial in tennis because of how long and grueling the season is, meaning players need much support.
Swiatek started her Qatar Open defense by beating Maria Sakkari in straight sets. The Greek No. 1 played well, but it was still not close to good enough against the Pole, who is aiming for a fourth consecutive title in Doha.
