“It really takes effort to stay energised after eleven months”: Iga Swiatek opens up on the grind of a long season

Iga Swiatek has arrived in Riyadh ready to close out one of the most consistent seasons of her career at the WTA Finals 2025. The 6-time Grand Slam champion, known for her composed yet fierce approach, described the unique conditions in Saudi Arabia with a smile, saying the court feels “totally different” from anywhere else on tour. Calm but focused, Swiatek begins her campaign among the top eight players in the world after a season marked by excellence and resilience.

The 24-year-old enters the Finals with an impressive 61–15 record and more than $9.4 million in prize money, a testament to her endurance and precision throughout 2025. Her campaign was highlighted by three major titles — Wimbledon, Cincinnati, and Seoul — and a runner-up finish in Bad Homburg, in addition to five other semifinal appearances, including at Roland Garros, the Australian Open, and major WTA 1000 events.

Despite not being in contention for the World No. 1 spot — currently held by Aryna Sabalenka — Swiatek has secured the year-end No. 2 ranking, cementing her status as one of the game’s most reliable forces. “Motivation and health are never the hardest parts,” she said. “It’s staying energised after eleven months that really takes effort.” Her words reflect not fatigue, but a veteran’s understanding of balance in a sport that demands constant travel and focus.

In Riyadh, Swiatek appears determined to enjoy the atmosphere as much as the competition. The Finals bring a mix of high-intensity matches and off-court commitments — from media sessions and photo shoots to charity clinics with local children. “You realise how far you’ve come and how special it is to be among the best eight players,” she explained. “Sometimes we forget to have fun because we’re always competing, but events like this remind me of that side of the game.”

Throughout her career, Swiatek has been known for her meticulous preparation and analytical mindset. Yet in Riyadh, she showed a more relaxed side, smiling as she spoke about photo sessions and charity events. “I always love the photo shoot,” she said, admitting that while it’s not her natural environment, it’s a reminder of what she has achieved. “It’s special, and I feel proud of myself and the other players who made it here.”

Her ability to combine focus and light-heartedness has been key to her sustained success. Even as she adapts to the unique conditions of Riyadh — with its altitude and slower balls — Swiatek remains pragmatic. “It’s funny because it feels like a completely different game sometimes,” she joked. “But I like challenges like this. They keep me sharp.”

The 24-year-old’s season has been filled with defining moments, from her statement win at Wimbledon to her gritty fightback in Seoul, where she overturned a one-set deficit to defeat Ekaterina Alexandrova. Each tournament added to her maturity and resilience, traits that have helped her maintain her place near the top of women’s tennis for three consecutive years. “You have to remember to enjoy the process. The results don’t always come, but the work and the growth are what matter most.”

Heading into the Finals, Swiatek knows the margins are thin, and the atmosphere will be intense. “Every player here has earned it,” she said. “You can’t take anything for granted — every match feels like a final. But that’s what makes this tournament so exciting. You know you’re competing against the best.”

The 6-time major champion already won the WTA Finals title back in 2023, defeating Jessica Pegula in the final 6-1, 6-0. However, in 2024 she was eliminated in the Round Robin due to a lower set percentage than her rivals Gauff and Krejčíková.

While the World No. 1 is out of reach, Swiatek remains focused on closing her season on a high note. Winning the WTA Finals would add a prestigious title to an already exceptional year and reinforce her standing as one of the sport’s most complete players. “If I could bring together the right mindset and intensity like I did at Wimbledon,” she reflected, “then I know I can do it anywhere.”