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Iga Swiatek plans to skip more events in 2026 after criticising the busy WTA schedule

Originally posted on HITC | By Liam McMillen | Last updated Nov 28, 2025 7:17 AM ET

World No. 2 says reduced workload will help her perform better under pressure

Iga Swiatek reached another level in 2025, finally adding a Wimbledon crown to her growing list of major achievements. Her year ended with a defeat at the WTA Finals, but across the season she still lifted three titles — Wimbledon, Korea and Cincinnati — and reached the Bad Homburg final. Even with that success, Swiatek has repeatedly voiced concerns about the demanding WTA calendar and has now offered the clearest indication yet that she intends to trim her schedule in 2026.

The Pole played 81 matches this year, winning 64 — a total bettered only by Aryna Sabalenka — yet she admits such a workload is unsustainable. In a new interview, Swiatek suggested she will strategically skip events next season to focus on technical work, physical recovery and mental sharpness.

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Swiatek reveals how many tournaments she hopes to skip

Speaking to The Guardian, Swiatek explained that she plans to miss “maybe two tournaments,” specifically those where she historically hasn’t performed well. She wants to use that time for targeted training, emphasising that extra practice can improve her decision-making under pressure and strengthen her confidence. Swiatek also highlighted that playing every mandatory event leaves little room for proper preparation, noting that most players arrive at some tournaments far from 100%.

Her next appearance will come at the United Cup, where she will represent Poland alongside Hubert Hurkacz.

Comparing Swiatek’s 2025 season to 2024

Swiatek has held the world No. 2 ranking for the past two seasons and delivered exceptional consistency across both years. She won 64 matches in 2024 and again in 2025, but required far more court time this season — logging 81 matches compared to 73 the year prior. Her 2024 win percentage stood at a remarkable 88%, boosted by titles at Indian Wells, Madrid, Rome and Roland Garros.

In 2025, however, her win rate slipped to 79% after eight additional losses. Although she still captured major trophies, the increased workload appears to have taken its toll — reinforcing why Swiatek now feels that a lighter schedule could be key to sustaining peak performance in 2026.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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