"I cried a little": Iga Swiatek opens up on emotional response to China Open victory

Iga Swiatek revealed the emotions she felt after winning the title at the China Open and the importance of staying positive.

After an incredible 2022, Swiatek faced greater challenges in the 2023 season, making it difficult for her to replicate the results of the previous year. The emergence of players who could compete directly with her and defeat her, such as Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, and Coco Gauff, was a significant factor.

Although Swiatek won the French Open title, she hadn't been fortunate in the other Grand Slam tournaments or the WTA 1000 events, where she had lost in two finals. Faced with defeats that prevented her from defending last year's points, she couldn't hold onto the world No. 1 ranking, losing it to Sabalenka.

However, in the last WTA 1000 event of the year, she managed to showcase some of her best form and clinched the title by defeating Liudmila Samsonova, giving her a boost of energy as she approaches the season's conclusion.

The Polish player didn't hide her emotions upon winning her 16th career title, including 4 Grand Slams and 6 WTA 1000 titles, which positions her as one of the most successful tennis players in recent times:

"I cried a little after winning because I know how hard it is to stay positive and stay focused on the future. Maybe not for everyone, but for me," claimed Swiatek after winning the tournament.

"I have felt immense support from my team in recent weeks. I am very grateful for that. During the match, I didn't think about anything; I wanted to focus on tennis," she added.

Although it seemed distant a few weeks ago, now Swiatek can challenge for the world No. 1 ranking with Sabalenka. World No. 2 is 630 points behind Sabalenka in the Race, and both will be present at the WTA Finals, a tournament that offers a maximum of 1500 points for an undefeated champion.