Iga Swiatek has had a roller coaster season. Although she clinched a Major trophy at the Roland Garros, most of her appearances this year didn’t leave a lasting impression. On top of it, she lost her world no.1 ranking to Aryna Sabalenka while also failing to defend her WTA Finals title. Not to mention the long break she took from tennis after splitting from her former coach. But all of it became secondary when she stepped on the court to represent Pobland in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals. Her heroics led her country to its best finish in the event – reaching the semifinal round. Swiatek’s brave efforts have now found a big admirer in one of her former mentors, Dawid Celt.

While speaking to TVP Sport, in its program called ‘Sport TOP of the Week’, Celt revealed his honest thoughts on Iga’s commendable performance in Malaga. Celt was the captain of Poland’s team at the BJK but according to him, Iga was the actual leader and she proved it with her solid form. In Poland’s campaign, she made a valuable contribution and took the nation into the SF round for the first time. Although Poland lost against Italy, Iga Swiatek managed to win her match against Jasmine Paolini. In a thrilling encounter, she beat the Italian 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 while showing that when it comes to playing for her country, she always gives her best. In her own words “even if I’m gonna die on court so I will do it, but give hundred percent.” Celt reflected similar sentiments as well saying “She is the undisputed leader of this team. She left everything that was best of her, heart, character.”

Moreover, he also confessed that Poland’s doubles team would have been better had Swiatek been a part of it. It’s because she’s predominantly a singles player. “Sometimes we miss her in doubles, with the best, the top ones,” said Dawid Celt, as reported by Przegląd Sportowy on November 24th. Now, the only thing she wants now is a peaceful time and much-needed rest ahead of 2025’s busy schedule.

Iga Swiatek focusing on adequate rest ahead of new season

Remember, Swiatek didn’t really get much time to recover after her WTA Finals campaign earlier this month. Despite the fatigue, she decided to participate in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals for Poland. Now that she’s away from the court, the Pole just wants to rejuvenate herself. Taking to her Instagram, she recently shared a note while reflecting on her 2024 journey and her feelings. “🙏🏻 Thanks for this season. First and foremost I’m thanking myself and my team because it was another extraordinary year. It was the season of not being a superhero and accepting it, facing new challenges, grinding, hard work, appreciating milestones and unlocking new achievements,” she wrote.

She also mentioned that she was satisfied with her performance this season. But now it’s “time to rest and reset. My body and mind need that. Thank you to every kind and supportive human being who is by my side in this journey. See you soon.”

The Pole will end this season as world no.2, behind arch rival Aryna Sabalenka. However, she will have ample opportunities to regain her lost throne when she steps on the court in 2025. In her first major appearance, she will enter the Australian Open where she failed to impress this year. Iga Swiatek was eliminated in the third round. However, she will look to make a strong comeback this time, especially after partnering with Wim Fissette as her new trainer. It will be interesting to see how this combination will turn out. Do you think she will be able to leave a lasting impression in 2025? Let us know in the comments below.