'For sure it’s not going to be the calmest Slam': Iga Swiatek on handling the chaos of New York

Iga Swiatek survived a tense three-set battle against Suzan Lamens at the US Open, ultimately winning 6–1, 4–6, 6–4. The match started smoothly for the world No. 1, but Lamens fought back in the second set, pushing Swiatek to adapt under pressure. “It got a bit complicated in the second set, but I’m happy that I could reset and start playing better in the third set,” Swiatek reflected. Her composure and tactical adjustments proved decisive in the end.

The world No. 2 was quick to credit her opponent for taking advantage of the opportunities presented. “I wouldn’t say surprised, but she did a good job. It was her first match on a big stage like this,” she said. Lamens’ ability to raise her level after a challenging first set highlighted the unpredictability of tennis, and Swiatek’s acknowledgment underscores the Polish star’s sportsmanship and respect for competitors.

Experience on major stages often plays a crucial role, yet the 6-time Grand Slam champion recognizes that pressure affects players differently. “Sometimes it can give you extra motivation when you have nothing to lose,” she explained, reflecting on the mindset of underdogs. This awareness allows Swiatek to adapt not only to the tactical challenges her opponents present but also to the psychological battles that unfold during high-stakes matches.

Footwork and court positioning remain central to Swiatek’s game. “Everything starts there. If you’re not going to be in the right position before the shot, you can’t play only with your hands,” she explained. Her disciplined movement ensures that she can transition seamlessly between offense and defense, particularly in tight moments like those seen in the final set against Lamens. This combination of agility and tactical awareness is what sets top players apart.

Beyond technical skill, Swiatek also discussed the broader challenges of playing at the US Open. “It’s more focused on entertainment and the show, you know. So you kind of need to adjust to that and accept it,” she said, referring to the unique atmosphere of New York. The combination of media attention, fan engagement, and the hectic tournament schedule requires mental toughness in addition to on-court ability.

Life as a tennis star also brings its own rewards and challenges. “Mostly, I enjoy it. I really like the photo shoots and seeing my face somewhere—it’s pretty cool,” Swiatek admitted. Yet, she acknowledges the difficulty of balancing the spotlight with training focus: “When you want to just grind and be in your bubble, working peacefully without too many people watching, it’s hard to find that.” This duality of fame and focus is a reality for elite athletes navigating both competition and public attention.

Looking ahead, the 2022 US Open champion is already focused on her next challenge. “I’ll prepare tactically as before any other match and I’ll be ready,” she said, speaking about facing Kalinskaya. She also analyzed her opponent’s playing style: “She’s a flat hitter and she likes to be proactive and aggressive from the first ball.” Swiatek preparation and strategic thinking emphasize her professionalism and readiness to adapt to any opponent.

Defensively and offensively, Swiatek continues to demonstrate why she is one of the favorites for the title. “I can always rely on my defense. The balancing is something crucial,” she said, describing her approach to critical moments in matches. Her ability to blend aggressive play with solid defensive skills enables her to navigate pressure situations effectively, a quality that has been key to her Grand Slam successes.

Even beyond tennis, the Pole is thoughtful about broader issues in sport. Discussing the treatment of athletes, she said, “You can’t really judge from the behavior of one person the whole community.” While she acknowledged she is mostly focused on tennis, her perspective highlights an awareness of the complexities facing athletes in all sports.

Swiatek’s performance against Lamens demonstrated a blend of skill, experience, and mental resilience. From navigating a tricky second set to maintaining her focus under the bright lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium, she once again proved why she is one of the game’s elite players. As the tournament progresses, Swiatek’s blend of tactical awareness, agility, and professionalism will continue to make her a formidable contender.

Match Statistics Lamens vs. Swiatek