“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.

For the unversed, Tomasz Swiatek, a former professional rower, represented Poland in 1988 Olympics. He participated in the men’s quadruple sculls event and eventually finished seventh. When Iga turned pro, he was part of her team as well. However, Tomasz later handed over the reins to Tomasz Wiktorowski, her former trainer.

Meanwhile, Iga is currently preparing to make a solid impression in 2025. Being a top player, however, the pressure will be there on her to perform at the highest level. Even a former Polish WTA legend believes the same way.

Agnieszka Radwańska shares honest thoughts on Iga Swiatek ahead of 2025 season

Ex-WTA pro and former World No.2 Agnieszka Radwańska spoke to Przegląd Sportowy Onet in an interview dated December 20. In her interaction, she showed immense support for Iga. At the same time, she also reflected on the stress Swiatek must be going through right now due to her status as one of the top-ranked players.

She was No.1 few months ago but lost her spot to Aryna Sabalenka before the end of 2024. Highlighting this situation, Radwanska said, “Iga Swiatek has twice as much pressure because she has been at the top for almost three years. We also had leaders who changed every now and then, so the pressure on them was lower.” Continuing further, she added, “Iga is at a different level, she has been defending her position for a long time.”

The former Polish player even drew a parallel with Serena Williams and said, “I am reminded of Serena Williams, who was no longer playing for another Grand Slam title, but for the record in the number of titles won. We are talking about a different level of pressure.” Agnieszka wanted to imply how top players like Serena and Iga have to always meet the expectations to deliver the best. With them, nothing less than excellent is expected.

The Pole tested positive for a banned substance Trimetazidine (TMZ) back in August. It happened after her medication (Melatonin) was contaminated with TMZ. But she had no clue about it. Later, the ITIA handed her a suspension from September to October, with an additional ban. It ended earlier this month. But she’s received a lot of harsh reactions from many tennis pros who believe she took the substance on purpose.

While stepping on the court next month at the Australian Open, Iga will be under immense pressure. Along with delivering a stellar performance, she will have to focus on ignoring all the negative voices. Will she be able to do it?