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Is Iga Swiatek's coaching change a bold move or a risky gamble for her career?

The whole tennis world has now heard a lot more than just the update of Iga Swiatek‘s split with ex-coach Tomasz Wiktorowski. Players and journalists from across the globe didn’t back down from either echoing or denying the rumors surrounding various dynamics in this whole story. However, things now seem to be cooling down as she has announced a collaboration with Naomi Osaka‘s ex-coach Wim Fissette. While Hubert Hurkacz recently stepped forward to explain how things are not as bad as they seem to be, another verdict follows, this time with the Polish ATP pro as an example.

The current world No. 2 Iga Swiatek has a new coach by her side. Wim Fissette, a seasoned coach known for working with several top players, has replaced Tomasz Wiktorowski after Swiatek promised that she’ll be collaborating with a foreign coach this time. While the decision was unexpected for some, others already saw this change coming.

Former Polish tennis star Wojciech Fibak recently shared his thoughts on the situation in an interview with “PrzeglÄ…d Sportowy” Onet. “By the way, I must admit that I regret that Tomek Wiktorowski will not be in Iga’s box in Saudi Arabia. I had a feeling earlier that the separation was in the air,” he said, missing the days when Wiktorowski used to guide Swiatek with an excellent wit that helped the WTA star attain massive success. His comments reflect a belief that the end of this partnership had been looming.

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via Reuters

Fibak also compared ÅšwiÄ…tek’s situation to that of fellow Polish star Hubert Hurkacz, who recently parted ways with his coach Craig Boynton. “I knew then that it was the end of cooperation with Craig Boynton. I saw it in his eyes,” Fibak explained, recalling Hurkacz’s reaction after his US Open exit. Despite believing that ÅšwiÄ…tek and Wiktorowski had resolved a minor crisis after the US Open, Fibak saw the separation coming.

After five successful years together, Hubert Hurkacz parted ways with his long-time coach, Craig Boynton. The coach took to social media to announce the split, expressing gratitude for their journey. “What a special ride these past five years have been,” Boynton wrote. “We have experienced so many unbelievable highs and have grown so much together, however, sometimes good things must come to an end. Hubi and I have mutually agreed to go our separate ways. So grateful for our time together. I am looking forward to a new chapter in my life and the opportunities that will come.”

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The unexpected end to their partnership shows a broader trend of coaching changes among top players. This aspect turns out to be a similar thing in both Swiatek and Hurkacz’s careers.

Hurkacz defends Iga Swiatek’s psychologist amid controversial rumors

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Is Iga Swiatek's coaching change a bold move or a risky gamble for her career?

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As rumors revolved around Iga ÅšwiÄ…tek’s psychologist’s role in the coach split, fellow Polish player Hubert Hurkacz stepped in to defend the World No. 1’s team structure. Hurkacz recently shared his perspective in an interview with Wyborcza.pl. He addressed the growing debate surrounding Abramowicz’s influence on ÅšwiÄ…tek’s decisions. Hurkacz highlighted that working with a psychologist is common practice for many athletes, himself included. “I also work with a psychologist. And many athletes benefit from such help,” he stated, highlighting the role psychological support plays in managing the demands of professional tennis.

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A journalist from Wyborcza.pl suggested that Abramowicz’s role goes beyond just preparing ÅšwiÄ…tek mentally for matches, as she is often seen sitting next to her coach during games. Hurkacz provided a thoughtful response to that. He explained that each athlete’s needs are unique, and the extent of a psychologist’s involvement can differ from one player to another. “This is an individual matter. Every athlete must decide what he needs. How close is the psychologist to be,” Hurkacz said, in an attempt to defend the personalized approach ÅšwiÄ…tek has taken with her team.

Hurkacz also highlighted the importance of communication and teamwork in an athlete’s support system. He said that it’s crucial for all members of a player’s team, including the masseur, physiotherapist, psychologist, and coach, to work in harmony. “It is important that there is good communication and well-coordinated cooperation in the team,” Hurkacz added. His remarks gave out a belief that each player’s success relies on collaboration and understanding within their inner circle.

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