"That's what happened": Iga Swiatek opens up about receiving threats during Miami Open

Poland’s Iga Swiatek has opened up about receiving threats during the recently concluded Miami Open. The 23-year-old, who is regarded as one of the best players currently playing in women’s tennis in the singles category along with the likes of Aryna Sabalenka, suffered a surprising defeat in the quarterfinal of the event to Philippines’ Alexandra Eala in straight sets with a score of 6-2, 7-5.

Swiatek has been recently quoted in a report by English media outlet Daily Express where she opened up about receiving threats during a training session. She also highlighted how WTA stepped in to control the situation and provided her more security.

“Well, I wouldn't call it a threat because it wasn't that hard. I mean, for sure there was a fan that wanted to disrupt my rhythm,” she said. “I try to focus on the fans that are giving me support. But obviously when you hear something like that, you want to react. I think WTA helped us, helped me, to feel protected. The thing that I heard wasn't a threat, but I think there were some threats on the Internet. So yeah, WTA helped me react quickly and made me feel secure. I'm happy there is someone overlooking us and helping us to react in these kinds of situations. Yeah, that's what happened. I'm happy that I have my team also around that helps me in these kinds of situations.”

Swiatek is going through a difficult season, according to her high standards. She has not won any WTA event ever since lifting the French Open last year. This year, the five-time Grand Slam winner managed to play in the quarterfinal of every event where she participated but never managed to get past the semifinals stage. Her best outing came at the Australian Open, where she lost in the semifinal to America’s Madison Keys with a score of 5-7, 6-1, 7-6.