Iga Swiatek has reacted to the disappointment of losing the number one spot after an early exit at the US Open.
Swiatek, who spent 75 consecutive weeks at the top of the WTA rankings, was replaced by Aryna Sabalenka after the Belarusian advanced further than the Polish player at Flushing Meadows. In the round of 16, Swiatek gave up a one-set lead against Jelena Ostapenko and crashed out of the US Open.
Undoubtedly, the loss hurt Swiatek and had the former world number one questioning how her performance dipped so drastically in the Ostapenko defeat. But, having had a few days to digest the news, the 22-year-old penned a heartfelt, determined message on Twitter, vowing to push on from the setback and comeback stronger.
"Last 1.5 years was a time of observing and experiencing how much people talk and write about 'defending', 'defense' - of titles, ranking positions, points...I was surprised sometimes to start to think this way because of this. But...I don't need to defend anything and this is a good moment to write down some thoughts."
"For more, sport is a cycle of constant changes exactly like in everyday life, we can either win or lose - that's it, it's so simple. New season, next tournament, new opportunities, to GAIN, Acheive, not defend something. Clean Slate."
Despite outlining her desire to fight on after her early US Open exit, Swiatek also shared how she will now focus on herself in a bid to improve. In addition, the 22-year-old thanked her fans for their support during her extensive reign as number one in the world.
"During this year's US swing I could win and achieve more, that's for sure. I know some of you expected more, many of you expected 'defending' the no 1 ranking, the title."
"But I stick to my mindset: when I work hard, I'm developing myself and doing my job, I will create many more chances to WIN to ACHEIVE my goals and not to defend. The way to do it is to constantly focus on my high standards in what I do and learn from the best in this sport and from my team."
"And yes...what a journey it was as number one in women's tennis! Thank you for being with me on this. I will try to appreciate this time before I go forward, trying to achieve more."
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