The best solution is not giving a damn” – Iga Swiatek on blocking out outside chatter

Iga wrote a piece in the Players Tribune talking about her career and the way she approaches tennis and life.

Swiatek had a fantastic year in 2022, winning two grand slams and cementing her position as the best player in the world. Swiatek took that number one rank and proved she deserved it by playing fantastic tennis all year, and it’s was not simply because Barty retired.

I didn’t think I proved myself winning Roland Garros for the first time. I felt like it kind of happened by mistake, like I was in the right place at the right time, I played well, and it somehow happened. So going into the 2021 season, I felt like, Okay, now I have to prove myself. And it was mentally awful for me at first. I was also working with a big sponsor for the first time, and I felt this pressure, like if I didn’t achieve something, I’d be this huge disappointment.

On doubting herself

Swiatek found inspiration in Barty and the way she approached tennis. She showed her a different way of approaching things and it was something that is still with her.

It worked out in a fabulous way for her as she proved that she belongs and that she has what it takes to be the best player in the world.