Iga Swiatek was able to find a positive after her incredible season ended in the WTA Finals semifinal: She gets more time to rest after a grueling year.
Swiatek was the favorite for the WTA Finals after her achievements in 2022. She won seven titles, including the French and US Open, and went on an extraordinary 37-match winning streak from February until losing in the third round of Wimbledon.
The Pole's favorite tag became even more overwhelming after dropping just 13 games in her three group stages matches. That was one of two records she became the first WTA player to achieve since Serena Williams.
Swiatek also showed her mentality by overcoming an unexpected stoppage during her match against Caroline Garcia in the group stage. The 21-year-old seemed in a good place to win her maiden WTA Finals title.
However, Aryna Sabalenka ended those hopes by defeating the two-time French Open champion in three sets. Swiatek lost the decider 1-6 and faded away quicker than fans probably expected.
But that is also understandable after Swiatek's long and outstanding year. She admitted that staying motivated throughout the season was not easy, and she had been waiting for a chance to rest for 2023.
"I'm not gonna lie to you. I've been waiting for that moment. Because last week, basically it was pretty hard to see the finish line but still be fully motivated and ready for every match. On one hand, I'm sad that I lost, but on the other hand, I have one more day off. That's something on the bright side."
"It's just crazy that it happens. It's that kind of thing that is gonna stay with you for the rest of your career. And it's something to be proud of. Even though I lost today, I'm going to try to enjoy everything."