Swiatek, about Barty: “Her departure seemed strange to me, it was a great loss for sports”
Each talk about how they experienced their rapid rise to the top of tennis, in addition to discussing their presence at the Billie Jean King Cup 2024.
Despite facing a negative surprise a few days ago at the WTA Finals 2024, a tournament where she did not advance past the group stage, Iga Swiatek is now focusing on what will be her last tournament of the 2024 season: the Billie Jean King Cup 2024. Although reclaiming the number one spot in 2024 is no longer possible, the current world number two aims to end the year on a high note by winning a title with her country. The Polish player could become the main protagonist for Poland, which will battle to lift its first trophy in the history of the competition.
Her rapid rise to the top
“I didn’t understand what had happened,” the Polish player confessed to the official page of the Billie Jean King Cup. “Ash was the undisputed leader, playing the best tennis. Even if I knew where she was going to hit, it was still difficult to face her shot. Initially, her departure seemed strange to me; I felt it was a great loss for the sport. I have great respect for her. Furthermore, I had an idea of what the end of her career would mean for me. I had only been number 2 for a few days when suddenly the opportunity to climb to the top of the rankings presented itself to me.”
Poland’s role in this BJKC
“I am very happy and proud of everyone; it was a very fun week,” Swiatek recalled about the qualifying rounds. “So, I am happy that this time we have been able to lead my team to the final phase. I hope we accomplish the task in Málaga, but I am super proud of what we have achieved,” said Iga after securing qualification for the final battle for her country’s title, Poland, which has never won this trophy until now.
