Iga Swiatek, who just won her third grand slam title in the 2022 US Open, revealed that Rafael Nadal played a huge part in her success.
Swiatek is having an incredible year so far. She went on a historic 37-match win streak earlier this year to clinch the no. 1 spot in the ATP Tour rankings. During this incredible run, the Polish won six singles titles, including the French Open 2022.
Swiatek’s stunning form dipped a little in the aftermath of Wimbledon. Since the Roland Garros win, she failed to reach quarter-finals in four straight tournaments. Therefore, doubts arose about her odds to win before the final grand slam of the year. However, putting an end to all doubts, the 21-year-old won the 2022 US Open beating Ons Jabeur in the grand final.
main character energy ✨@iga_swiatek | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/jC1Z8DkQuV
— wta (@WTA) September 11, 2022
Following her 2nd major win of the year, Swiatek credited the 22-time grand slam winner; Rafael Nadal for playing a significant part in her success. “Rafa is such a great person on and off the court and he has inspired me so much, especially this season when I watched his final at the Australian Open”, she said.
She also admitted to looking up to Nadal’s indomitable fighting spirit. “It really gave me extra motivation and even more grit on court when I really needed that, so I’m grateful to have been able to spend some time around Rafa too.”
While Swiatek had a perfect run at the Flushing Meadows, Nadal performed poorly as he bowed out of the tournament early after losing to Frances Tiafoeb in the round of 16.
