"I could see how top players were treated different": Iga Swiatek believes her voice should be heard in making WTA 'uncomfortable'

The WTA has been criticized for it's preferential treatment of top players over the years, and World No.1 Iga Swiatek has spoken out against the issue, saying she could bring more attention to the matter.

Following the hosting fiasco at this year's WTA Finals event in Cancun, several players engaged in a back and forth with the organizing body regarding their handling of the matter. Furthermore, players have complained for years about the manner in which the WTA deals with certain issues on tour.

In a recent interview, the Polish star noted she had observed the difference in the way the WTA treated it's higher-ranked players. Additionally, she believes her voice carried some weight considering her position as World No.1.

"In fact, when I became number one, I could see how top players were treated differently," admitted Swiatek. "And the players who are just rising. I would say that on the court itself, it obviously doesn't matter where he comes from or what his history is, because how he plays and what he achieves will depend on what he shows on the court. And off the court? Well, you can actually feel the difference.

"I just did it a few times. I have raised some things in the media and criticized the WTA at times, so I realize this may be uncomfortable for them. But I also just try to be a leader who stands behind the players. The main priority is for the players to be well, because without us, it wouldn't exist and sometimes I would just be in the world of business and money.

"I think it's easy for corporations like this to forget that we should be the backbone of it all. And I try to remind myself of this, which sometimes may not be convenient when we are discussing some issues and I have different opinions than these."