Iga Swiatek has opened up about using her status as the world's best female tennis player to say things that need saying, and to use that platform for the good of others.
Swiatek is currently the runaway World No. 1 on the WTA tour, and has produced tennis over the last ten months that has barely been touchable at time.
Away from the court, however, the young Pole continues to impress. Clearly a highly intelligent young woman, and someone who cares deeply about the welfare of others and the planet, 21-year-old Swiatek is already a role model and icon for so many people.
She has spoken eloquently and candidly about the need to support the people of Ukraine, organising and participating in several fundraising events. Iga is also an avid and passionate advocate for mental health awareness, having donated prize money to mental health charities in the past.
I don’t feel I’m an activist, to be honest. I’m a person who wants to use my impact well in a way that is healthy for me and fits my current possibilities. With Ukraine, it was a spontaneous decision because the news about the war was a big shock for me and I wanted to show my solidarity and then do more to help. Usually, I make decisions to support something important to me, like Ukraine or the area of mental health. Then I’ll talk to my team, and they’ll help me create my own way to support matters that are close to my heart. I can’t support everyone and everything, I give myself the right to decide what I want and what I don’t want to support.
Swiatek also sets an example in the way she deals with the press, tennis fans and her fellow players.
Extraordinarily, she is still only 21 years of age and has a lot left she wishes to accomplish. Having watched this remarkable young woman flourish over the past few years, I'd have a good bet that she achieves these future endeavours, be they tennis or socially motivated.
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