Iga Swiatek, one of the brightest stars in tennis, has made waves with her skill and mental resilience on the court. But behind the fierce competitor, Swiatek is also a person who experiences moments of doubt, just like anyone else. And when those tough times hit, the Polish tennis sensation has a secret weapon: music.
In a recent interview, Swiatek revealed the three carefully curated playlists she turns to when she needs a boost—whether it’s to calm her nerves or uplift her spirits. Here’s a peek into the music that fuels her mental game and helps her stay centered when the pressure builds.
1. Classical Calm: For Relaxation and Focus
Swiatek often reaches for classical music when she needs to unwind or regain focus. With a background in tennis where precision and calmness are essential, she relies on classical compositions to quiet her mind before a match or to soothe her thoughts after a loss.
Some of her favorites include works by Beethoven and Chopin—whose compositions provide both structure and serenity. The deep harmonies and controlled pace help Swiatek to clear her head and re-center, providing that crucial mental reset when the pressures of the game get overwhelming.
2. Pop Energy: For Motivation and Empowerment
When she needs a pick-me-up, Swiatek switches gears to an upbeat pop playlist. Energetic and empowering, this playlist is packed with songs that elevate her mood and provide motivation during tough times. Whether it’s a challenging match or a moment of self-doubt, pop music with empowering lyrics helps keep her motivated and reminded of her strength.
Artists like Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, and Rihanna feature heavily on this list, giving Swiatek the energy she needs to push through both on and off the court. These upbeat tracks help her tap into a sense of power and confidence—exactly what she needs when faced with challenges.
3. Indie Vibes: For Reflection and Peace
Lastly, when Swiatek needs to clear her mind and reflect, she turns to indie music. This genre provides a perfect balance of introspection and calm, allowing her to slow down and reconnect with herself. The more laid-back and melodic sounds help her find peace, providing a space for personal reflection without overwhelming her senses.
Artists like Bon Iver, Tame Impala, and Phoebe Bridgers frequently make their way onto this playlist, offering a blend of gentle rhythms and thought-provoking lyrics. These soothing tunes help Swiatek to ground herself, especially in times of uncertainty, and foster a sense of inner peace that supports her mental clarity.
Why Music Matters for Iga Swiatek
Swiatek’s approach to mental wellness through music speaks volumes about the power of music in coping with stress, anxiety, and self-doubt. In a high-pressure sport like tennis, maintaining mental strength is just as important as physical ability—and music serves as a tool for her to reset, refocus, and recharge.
By rotating between classical, pop, and indie playlists, Swiatek taps into different emotional energies depending on what she needs. Whether it’s finding inner peace, boosting her motivation, or calming her nerves, music helps her stay balanced, both mentally and emotionally.
