World number one Iga Swiatek has heaped praise on the
authorities organising the United Cup for finally listening to her complaints.
The competition is currently underway in Perth, Australia,
where some of the big-name players are taking part to get some much-needed time
on the court ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year.
Before this year, a group match was used to decide in five
sets. However, it has now been decided in three sets something that was also
demanded by Swiatek in the past.
The Polish tennis star was recently quoted in a report where
she heaped praise on the authorities for finally listening to what she has been
saying for three years.
"I'm really happy that United Cup kind of listened to
our feedback and are supporting us in terms of giving us time to get used to
the new conditions," she said. "I'm really happy that United Cup and
everybody that organized this tournament listened to us because there were many
feedbacks that were the same as ours. I felt for sure last year like I couldn't
find my game suddenly."
"I'm saying it
for a third time, but they actually listened. Last year I had a meeting right
after, and they seemed really understanding. It's something that we lack I
think from some [organizations].”
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.