Iga Swiatek says Rafael Nadal’s tenacity ‘inspired’ her success in speech at Rafa Nadal Academy

Iga Swiatek has revealed how Rafael Nadal’s tenacity” has inspired her to greatness as she gave a speech to the graduates at his Mallorca academy.

The victory clinches her position at the top of the world rankings for some time and given her performance for much of the fortnight at Roland-Garros, many expect her to continue to dominate the women’s game.

On Wednesday she had been invited to deliver a speech at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca to this year’s class of graduates, including last year’s US Open girl’s champion, Alexandra Eala.

Welcoming Swiatek to the event, 22-time Grand Slam Nadal said: “Honestly, for us it’s a huge privilege to have you here today.

“I know that everybody here at the academy, the students especially, appreciate your efforts, that after winning Roland-Garros you are here inspiring all the kids.”

“On Philippe-Chatrier Stadium it’s written ‘The victory belongs to the most tenacious.’

She continued: “I often have the feeling that sometimes when I’m playing or when I’m doing things off court, that I should do them better or I should seek perfection.

“But this shouldn’t be the sense. We should all focus on the process and giving 100 percent, no matter what you can give, because every day is different.

“So I hope no matter what you do in the future years, if you’re going to give 100 percent, if you’re going to dedicate your focus and time to do it the best way possible, no matter what the result is going to be I’m sure that you’ll have no regrets at the end.”

Discussing the times she had seen Nadal struggle but overcome poor form or injuries, she said: “These are the matches that inspired me. So I hope you will be tenacious.”

Swiatek also encouraged students to “seek help” if they need it.

“When I was younger it was really hard to open up, to talk about what I want to do, what I want to achieve, how I feel,” she said.

“When I started doing that I felt I could truly work on myself and I became a much better person.

“So whatever you do in the future, don’t hesitate to seek help. Don’t hesitate to talk about difficult stuff.”