"I'm just human" - Swiatek opens up on apparent unfair expectations from fans

Tuesday, 28 February 2023 at 20:30

Updated at Tuesday, 28 February 2023 at 20:20

byJamie Malachy

Iga Swiatek has recently hinted at some of the unrealistic and pressurising expectations that she receives from some of her fanbase, with a social media post summing up her time in the Middle East.

The runaway World No. 1 enjoyed a very successful desert swing, winning the title in Doha before reaching the final at the Dubai Tennis Championships 1000-level event - all with a typically swashbuckling style of tennis.

However, it appears that a minority of her fanbase - or perhaps they are not - have been expressing their disappointment that Iga did not achieve a complete 100% sweep in the Middle East.

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Taking to social media to reflect on a chapter of her season, as Swiatek frequently does, the young Pole spoke of her justifiable satisfaction at what she'd achieved over the past two weeks, while also hinting at the disappointment that some 'fans' had apparently voiced.

Yesterday I was still in Dubai, today I’m in Warsaw, soon in Indian Wells… These last few weeks were intense, and challenging but we did a lot of good work and progress. I enjoyed tournaments in Doha and Dubai and even though I lost the final in Dubai (huuuuge congrats @bkrejcikova) my level was good despite the infection and I gave it all I could at the moment.

— Swiatek's message on social media

I can see that some of you have higher expectations of me but well… I’m just human. I will keep my standards high, I will enjoy my time on tour and keep working hard. At the end of the day that is all I can control. My effort and engagement. Thank you all for the support and see you soon!

For the unknown number of people who have seemingly - and ludicrously - criticised the World No. 1, there are many more who have come out in vocal support of the three-time major champion.

Swiatek will next play at the Sunshine Double in the United States, where she is the double defending champion at those two events.