Swiatek losing World No.1 spot 'best thing that can happen for her tennis' according to Wilander
WTASunday, 10 September 2023 at 08:00
Seven-time Grand Slam winner Mats Wilander believes that
losing the number one spot in the WTA rankings is the best thing that could’ve
happened to Poland’s Iga Swiatek.
The 22-year-old lost her top spot in the WTA rankings after
a disappointing outing in the US Open 2023 where she was defending her title.
Swiatek lost to Latvia’s Jelena Ostapenko in the round of 16
with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 which means that Belarus’ Aryna Sabalenka will be
the top-ranked player in the WTA rankings updated after the US Open.
Wilander, who was also the world number one in the men’s
category in 1988, believes that losing the top spot is the best thing for
Swiatek who will now have time to work on her game instead of worrying about
how she can extend the reign at the top.
"I think this is most probably the best thing that can
happen for her tennis," said Wilander while talking to Eurosport. "There’s
a reason for her to start working on her game again and figuring out what
happens to her when she plays against big hitters now she doesn’t have to
[worry about being world No. 1].
“But she’s right in the statement about defending. We turn
into a bit of a negative, we talk about defending, defending points, so I think
it’s time for her to step aside and work on her game a bit."
Former America’s tennis star John McEnroe also agreed with Wilander
and stated that when you are number one, there is more focus on your
performance than any other player.
"She [Swiatek] has done a fantastic job for the most
part,” he said. “Of course there is more pressure and expectations. The No. 1
player is looked at more carefully, you have to accept and expect that. She won
the US Open last year, she’s won three French Opens, she’s carried herself
proudly, she has done a fantastic job all in all. But you are the hunted,
people are coming after you."
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.
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