Iga Swiatek opens up on pressures and expectations and people ‘judging’ her at Australian Open

Iga Swiatek has opened up on the pressures on her at the Australian Open, saying she “feels expectations” and it would be “easier if less people were judging”.

Swiatek was the outstanding player on the WTA Tour in 2022, winning eight titles, including the French Open and US Open, and recording a 37-match winning streak.

Reflecting on the pressures this season as world No. 1, Swiatek said: “This time it feels different because during the pre-season and my time at home, not being focused on playing matches, I had a lot of time to kind of think and analyse. I kind of realised what happened.

“Last year I was just focused on my next steps and my next matches. For sure I feel the expectations, that people kind of want to take for granted that I’m going to win those first rounds. It’s always not easy. Every match is a different story.

“You have to really work hard to win. I just feel like they’re taking it for granted a little bit. There’s no reason to do that honestly because I know I had streak last year, and I was consistent…every match is a different story, every season is different.

“I feel expectations a little bit more this time, but I know I can kind of work on that. I just wish that some people would understand little bit more how it is to compete every week of your life basically. You just have to deal with that. Maybe it will be a little bit easier if there were less people that are kind of judging.”

Niemeier looked like she would take Swiatek to a decider just as she did at last year’s US Open.

However, Swiatek won four games in a row from 5-3 down to advance to the second round where she will meet Camila Osorio.

“For sure I’m happy I was able to come back in the second set and break back,” said Swiatek.

“That was an important moment, for sure. But it’s the beginning of the season, first match of the first Grand Slam. So it’s always tough. Jule is not an easy opponent, so I’m happy I’m through and going to be able to play more matches here.

“My goal for the next matches is not being in those situations and not starting the set with losing a break. But it happens.”

Jessica Pegula, who beat Swiatek in straight sets at the United Cup earlier this month, swept to a 6-0 6-1 victory over Jaqueline Cristian.

Swiatek and Pegula could meet in the semi-finals in Melbourne.

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Stream the 2023 Australian Open live on discovery+, the Eurosport app and at eurosport.co.uk.