Iga Swiatek’s Father Becomes the Unsung Hero Behind His Daughter’s Olympics Success, Claims Polish Journalist

“I have never felt anything like that, even in the Grand Slams, so it wasn’t easy… and having a medal is a dream come true” said Iga Swiatek earlier this year after winning the first-ever Olympic medal for Poland in tennis. Her victory was special also because of her father’s deep Olympics connection. The five-time Grand Slam champion succeeded in achieving what he couldn’t during his professional rowing career. However, his role has always been crucial in Iga’s journey, as claimed by a prominent Polish journalist.

Back in August, the former World No.1 managed to clinch the Bronze after taking down Slovakia’s Anna Karolina. The Pole clinched the match 6-1, 6-2. After claiming the medal, she expressed extreme happiness. Especially in connection to her father who taught her never to give up in life. In an interaction with Visa, when the host showed her a picture of her and her father Tomasz Swiatek, she got emotional. Highlighting his contribution in her career, she said, “That’s actually a photo that was taken this year, basically because of him you know I’m playing tennis. In tough moments, my dad was there to keep going and to show me that it’s still worth it and I shouldn’t give up.”
Even reputed journalist Wlodzimierz Szaranowicz also believes the same way. During an interview with Przegląd Sportowy Onet, dated December 20, Szaranowicz threw light on Tomasz. Especially on his Olympics journey that may have pushed Iga to put efforts in winning her own first-ever Olympic medal. “In Iga’s history, gratitude to her father, who was an Olympian and represented Poland at the 1988 Seoul Games, in rowing, is of great importance. Undoubtedly, the Olympic medal has been talked about many times in this family,” he said.