"I have to say, I wish I was like Alcaraz," Swiatek said in an interview with TVA Sports on 31/7, following her Wimbledon victory. "Alcaraz genuinely has fun and enjoys tennis, something I don't have and have forgotten."
Before winning Wimbledon on 12/7, Swiatek went through more than six months of crisis, starting from her suspension after failing a doping test in 10/2024. The Polish player didn't win any titles during this time and at one point dropped to number five in the world. After her Wimbledon victory, she climbed to number three and regained some confidence.
"What Alcaraz does is a helpful reminder for me," Swiatek added about her Spanish colleague. "I will try to keep my mind as relaxed as Alcaraz. Just focus on training and competing."
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Swiatek (left) having lunch with Alcaraz at Porta Via restaurant, in Indian Wells, USA in March of this year. Photo: Reuters |
Swiatek (left) having lunch with Alcaraz at Porta Via restaurant, in Indian Wells, USA in March of this year. Photo: Reuters
Alcaraz rewarded himself with a vacation in Ibiza after defeating Jannik Sinner in the Roland Garros final – something tennis players don't usually do during the busiest part of the season. The Spanish player then won the Queen's Club Championship and reached the Wimbledon final. In a documentary about himself released earlier this year, Alcaraz said he wanted to balance life and career, rather than just focusing on title races.
Swiatek also admires Sinner's philosophy of success. The world number one affirms that hard work is the most important factor, not natural talent. This is evident in Sinner's rapid progress over the past two years, as he constantly improves his skills and enhances his physical condition.
"Sinner's mindset is great," Swiatek commented. "It's a lesson for every young player who wants to reach the top. I've been through that too. However, at this point in my career, I want to find balance in my life."
Like Alcaraz, Swiatek only needs the Australian Open to complete her collection of the four most prestigious titles in tennis. The 24-year-old currently holds six Grand Slam titles among a total of 23 titles since the beginning of her career.
Vy Anh
