Iga Swiatek (POL) reacts after missing a shot against Elise Mertens (BEL)(not pictured) on day six of the Miami Open

Iga Swiatek Details Uncomfortable Miami Incident Where She Was Followed up to Her Apartment

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Vivek Devane | Last updated May 8, 2025 3:49 PM ET

WTA grand slam champion Iga Swiatek has voiced her discomfort over a recent encounter with paparazzi following her to her apartment, shedding light on the ongoing struggle public figures face in balancing professional exposure with privacy.

In an honest reflection, Swiatek expressed her concerns about how invasive media behavior has become increasingly difficult to navigate, especially when it crosses the boundaries of her private life.

“I had an incident actually after Miami when I was home and paparazzi followed me almost to my apartment,” said Swiatek, recalling the uncomfortable moment in a recent interview. “I stopped them and said, ‘Ok, tomorrow I’m going to practice- you can take photos of me when I go there, but this is off-limits.’”

“I can accept it when it’s at work and I’m going to a practice and everything, but for example, when it’s close to my home and I’m having just to walk with a friend or with a family member, I’d rather them not do that because that’s my time off,” she added.

Back in her home country, Swiatek says that she barely gets out of her apartment because she knows that almost every step of hers is being seen.

“In Poland, it’s not possible anymore, so I can’t really say how to do that because it’s just not possible”, said Swiatek with honesty. “I’m spending more time in my apartment or at my friends’ apartments. I’m not really going out a lot because I know I’ll be watched.”

The 23-year-old amplifies the common experience among athletes and celebrities who are seeking a healthier balance between their public and private lives. Rather than shutting out the media entirely, Swiatek is advocating for mutual understanding.

“I understand what their job is about and we can have a nice even collaboration if they want to be supportive and they understand,” she said.

Her message is clear: the privacy of anyone must not be breached and respect and communication go a long way in creating an environment where stars can thrive both on and off the court.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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