Iga Swiatek detailed the conversation she had with Serena Williams during the US Open. The world No. 1 was dazzled by her encounter with the 23-time Grand Slam champion and admitted that it gave her a ‘positive boost’ before the third round.
The Polish player secured a comfortable victory over Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, winning 6-4, 6-2. Just before the match, the 23-year-old had a prolonged chat with Williams: “It was really nice to see her. She has a lot of positive energy,” commented Iga Swiatek.
“It is nice that she came on-site and she was chatting with the players because for me, even though we met before and for like a couple of years we have been on the same side and on the tours together, she is still like star-striking me,” she added, smiling. “It was nice that she approached me because I wouldn’t for sure find the courage to do that (smiling) if it was the other way. Yeah, she is really nice and really positive.”
“I’m happy that she is following tennis and likes my game because she told me she is cheering for me. It’s always nice to hear that from somebody like Serena,” added the 5-time Grand Slam champion. “She approached me, like, at 4:00, you know, today. It was before my warm-up. I would say it more inspired me and it gave me, like, a positive kick, so it was nice.”
Additionally, Swiatek was asked to compare the current level of tennis with that of two decades ago, but she acknowledged that it is difficult for her to draw conclusions: “It’s hard for me to judge the level I have because I am constantly looking at myself and other players, so it’s not easy to say if we are playing at our best level or at a higher level than five years ago,” she said.
“Surely we are playing better tennis than 20 years ago because our physical condition has improved, among other things. I’m not an expert, I haven’t watched many past matches, but it’s clear that you need to improve to move forward,” Swiatek added. “Becoming world No. 1 happened suddenly for me; I admit that at first, my opponents didn’t know what to expect from my game.”
“2023 was a challenge because I had a big target on my back; my rivals already knew my style, so that’s when you need to learn and have more variety on the court, you can’t keep playing the same tennis because people will figure it out, and it will be harder to win.”
“I don’t know if tennis is improving overall, but you need to enhance your game because here everyone analyzes you, and they will end up focusing on you to beat you.”
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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