'I'd Give Five Percent': Swiatek Told Equaling Graf's Rare Achievement May Be Unrealistic

Thursday, 04 January 2024 at 13:20

byJordan Reynolds

One of the best doubles players ever, Pam Shriver, has spoken about whether Iga Swiatek can match a huge Steffi Graf feat.

The world No. 1 has started the new season very strongly by winning all her matches, including a performance against China that helped Poland to take the semi-finals of the United Cup.

This follows an excellent end to last season. After a slight wobble from Wimbledon to the end of the US Open, Swiatek recovered by winning in Beijing and then triumphing for the first time at the WTA Finals.

Although we are still in the very early stages of the season, Swiatek's phenomenal ability and accomplishments to date and how well she is playing naturally lead to the question of just how much she can achieve in 2024.

One prize is the ultimate, and most difficult to achieve. This is the Golden Calendar Grand Slam. which is winning four Grand Slams and the Olympics in the same year. It has only been achieved once in tennis history. This was by the legend of the sport Steffi Graf in 1988.

Doubles legend Pam Shriver was asked during a conversation on the social media platform X what chance she would give Swiatek of winning the Golden Calendar Slam. She gave a clear answer.

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"I'd say one per cent. Maybe, I'd give five per cent. Look, there is a reason why it's only been done once. That was obviously Steffi Graf 88."

Graf is clear about what a monumental challenge that achievement is. Swiatek already has a hall-of-fame career, but it will take something particularly special to win the Golden Calendar Grand Slam.

One positive is that the Olympics is at Roland-Garros this year, where has won 3 of her 4 Grand Slams. Therefore, the Pole will undoubtedly be the favorite at the Olympics. Wimbledon is likely to present the biggest obstacle, with Swiatek least comfortable on grass.

The chances may be slim, but Swiatek, who is not feeling rusty at the start of the season, is an extraordinary player. If there is anyone in women's tennis who can make that five percent a reality, it is her.