"Iga Swiatek is a huge inspiration for everyone, even for me" admits Rafael Nadal

Friday, 26 August 2022 at 00:30

Updated at Saturday, 16 November 2024 at 10:21

byZachary Wimer

Iga Swiatek grew up idolizing Rafael Nadal, and he may have just given her the biggest compliment she could ever receive.

Swiatek possesses many qualities in her tennis that remind fans of Nadal. Her best surface is clay, and she’s well on her way to being remembered as one of the best clay players of all time.

The potential is even greater because she could easily end up being one of the best players of all time overall, but how much she works towards that will ultimately decide her legacy.

Having grown up as Nadal's fan, the work ethic isn’t something people usually question when it comes to the Polish player. She’s known as a very hard worker, something widely recognized on the WTA Tour.

Nadal and Swiatek are familiar with each other, having spent time both on and off the court together. She’s been quite open about her admiration for the Spaniard.

He recently returned the compliment, stating that everyone draws inspiration from Swiatek, including him, which may be the highest praise he could offer her.

"It was great. Iga (Swiatek), I think, is a huge inspiration for everyone, even for me [with] the way that she is very natural, very humble. It has been a pleasure to have her next to me on the court. We had some fun and [it was] for a very good cause, so happy to enjoy that moment."

They took part in an exhibition event ahead of the US Open to benefit victims of the war in Ukraine. Swiatek has been very outspoken about supporting that cause, with Nadal joining her in participating in the event as well.

They played doubles together, which was a remarkable sight, and they had a lot of fun with some great highlights. It’s no wonder people are comparing them, as on the court, they do resemble each other in many ways. Their footwork is simply exquisite.

In a 10-point tie-break that they played together, the team defeated tennis great John McEnroe and rising star Coco Gauff 10-8.