Iga Swiatek believes she is only just getting started and that comparison of her clay-court credentials to those of Rafael Nadal is premature.
Nadal, 37, is widely considered the greatest clay-court player of all time and has earned the right to be referred to as the "King of Clay." The Spaniard's dominance on the surface, and Roland Garros in particular, have no superlative in existence that could do his records any justice.
Although Alexander Zverev inflicted just the fourth defeat in 19 years of competing at the French Open for Nadal, he owns an unrivaled record of 112 wins and 14 titles. At this pomp, the former World no. 1 maintained a tight grip on the Coupe des Mousquetaires, losing only three times.
Swiatek, who will turn 23 this week, watched Nadal play at the clay-court major for possibly the last time on Monday. Just a few hours earlier, she booked her spot in the second round of the tournament after beating Leolia Jeanjean in straight sets and remains in pursuit of her third title in a row.
The Pole has often been described as the closest thing to Nadal regarding clay-court dominance and style among the current generation of superstars. While she has already set some incredible numbers in her young career, Swiatek opined that she does not deserve to be referred to as the "Queen of Clay," at least for now.
"I think it is too early for me (to be called the Queen of Clay). For sure, I am proud of this achievement and this has always been my favorite surface, it's where tennis for me gives the most pleasure. For sure I will be watching Rafa's match, but comparing me to him, I don't think I am at that level yet."
"I still have many things to prove. He's great person and a great athlete and he has shown that for many, many years. I am just at the beginning, so I will do my best to take my lessons from him and be a good person and a good player."
0 Comments