Iga Swiatek has lauded tennis legends Steffi Graf and Serena Williams as her heroes in Porsche Tennis’ Women’s Day feature. The World No.1 added that the two legends shaped the sport for the new generation players.
Steffi Graf a renowned legend won 22 major singles titles, the second-most in women’s singles won since the start of 1968. While Serena Williams won 23 major singles titles (23) the highest by any woman during the open era in tennis.
Swiatek who labeled the women as heroes has followed in their footsteps with four Grand Slam crowns. She will be aiming for her fifth at the clay court in the French Open in May. The Polish player, who won the Porsche Grand Prix last year, featured in the Porsche Women’s Day celebration.
In the video posted on the Porsche Tennis X (formerly known as Twitter) page, Iga Swiatek revealed her heroes and her biggest inspiration. Here is what Swiatek had to say:
On this women's day, I want to talk to you about my women's childhood heroes. For sure, because I play tennis Steffi Graf and Serena Williams are my heroes. They shaped our sport and paved the way for a better future for us and I'm always gonna be grateful for that. Iga Swiatek said
Swiatek added:
Now I got say that my biggest inspiration is actually the women that I work with. I have many women on my team. They motivate me to move forward and to work harder. They are people I can lean on sometimes. I'm grateful for having a support like that. Iga Swiatek added
Despite the 22-year-old’s early exit at the Australian Open in January, she bounced back in Doha to win her first title of the season. She will be aiming for another title in the Indian Wells.
Iga Swiatek wants to be ready for the Paris Olympics
Iga Swiatek has revealed that she wants to be ready for the Paris Olympics. However, despite the hectic schedule she plans to prioritize the biggest events this season.
In an interview with Eurosport, Swiatek said:
I’m at this stage where I want to play everything. Especially the tournaments where I know I felt comfortable. Iga Swiatek said
The Polish star added:
For sure before the Olympics it would be hard for me to decide I’m going to miss this one, just to stay fresh and have appropriate time for recovery. For sure I want to be ready for the Olympics, it’s an important tournament. So we’ll see, but if it’s going to be necessary we may do that. Iga Swiatek added
Swiatek is the leading contender for gold at this summer Olympics event in Paris which will be held at Roland Garros, where she has won the French Open three times. She will be looking forward to adding another feather to her hat.
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