"I'm forced a little": Iga Swiatek jokes about being made to watch men's matches during United Cup campaign
WTASunday, 31 December 2023 at 23:30
Iga Swiatek
playfully remarked that her compatriot Hubert Hurkacz forces her to watch the
men's matches amid the 2024 United Cup. The Polish duo entered the tournament
as the top seeds, thanks to Swiatek's world No. 1 ranking and Hurkacz's No. 9,
making them one of the favorites for the title.
The
tournament's format pits nations against each other in matches featuring men's
singles, women's singles, and mixed doubles. The rest of each country's team
positions themselves in one corner of the court while cheering on their
representative, as is customary in team tournaments.
Poland's victory and the team support
The 4-times
Grand Slam champion won her first match against the Brazilian Beatriz Haddad
Maia (6-2, 6-2) and then watched 'Hubi' struggle to defeat Thiago Seyboth Wild
(6-7, 6-2, 6-3). Finally, they teamed up to face 'Bia' and Marcelo Melo, and
once again, the Poles secured the victory (6-4, 6-3).
In the
press conference after the series, Swiatek joked about watching men's matches
due to Hurkacz, something she isn't accustomed to: "I'm happy that I'm
also able to watch men's singles a little bit. I mean, I can do that in other
tournaments as well, but usually you don't find time to do that. Here I'm
forced a little bit. I'm kidding," she said, smiling."
"Sorry,"
Hurkacz responded, eliciting laughter in the press conference.
Swiatek
continued, saying that she enjoys cheering for her teammate in the United Cup:
"I'm not forced. It's a part of the game here. I'm happy I can see how
they play and learn a little bit. I love the team spirit because it's something
different. We never have that on tour. We're usually on our own, so it's nice
to have other players cheering for you," she said.
Poland's next duel
The Polish
team will play their second series on January 1st against Spain. It will start
with the men's match between Hurkacz and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina (No. 26).
Then, Swiatek will be challenged by Sara Sorribes Tormo (No. 48). Finally, the
mixed doubles will feature the same four players competing for the decisive
point, aiming to advance to the quarterfinals of the United Cup.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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