With Iga Swiatek facing criticism that she did not battle any of her top rivals en route to the 2023 French Open title, retired tennis champion Jimmy Connors has come to her defense, drawing parallels with tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Swiatek dominated the competition before lifting her third title in Paris, which led many critics to state she had a favorable draw. With Elena Rybakina withdrawing in the third round due to illness and Aryna Sabalenka losing in the semifinals, Swiatek did not face any of her top rivals on her path to the title.
Nonetheless, Connors believes it should not be held against the World No.1, stating Federer and Nadal did not always face each other in several finals.
"Ya, I'm sure the tournament would've liked that," Connors said on the 'Advantage Connors' podcast show. "The dream final between Sabalenka and Iga, the match that everybody expected and wanted to have. But like I said you can call it luck or whatever, if you go back Federer didn't make it to too many finals against Nadal. Even Djokovic and Nadal didn't make it against it too many finals either.
"So that happens, she kinda didn't have to play those two players (Elena Rybakina and Aryna Sabalenka), who bubbled up to become the biggest rivals on tour this year."
It's still a bit surreal and overwhelming.I just wanted to thank you all for your energy and support. I had the most exciting, challenging, frustrating and amazing few weeks. Still feeling a lot of emotions but one thing is certain... I will never forget this tournament.#proud
