Pretty sure you are going to win some of them: Swiatek on her rivalry with Jabeur. Courtesy: AP
HIGHLIGHTS
- Iga Swiatek, on Saturday, won the 3rd grand slam of her career
- Iga Swiatek beat Ons Jabeur to win her maiden US Open title
- Swiatek also became the first Polish woman to win at Flushing Meadows
World No.1 Iga Swiatek said that she didn’t expect a whole lot before the US Open 2022. On Saturday, September 10, the 21-year-old won her third grand slam by beating Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur 6-2, 7-6 (7-5) in the women’s singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
After winning the French Open for the second time, Swiatek couldn’t win a single championship. Moreover, she found it tough to get going, losing to the likes of Alize Cornet, Madison Keys, Beatriz Haddad Maia and Caroline Garcia.
“I didn’t expect a lot, especially before the tournament. It was such a challenging time, you know. Coming back and winning a grand slam is always tricky, even though I won twice at Roland Garros.
“So, I wanted to take a pause, focus on the goals and winning the tournament was challenging. It’s New York, it’s so loud and it’s so crazy,” Swiatek was quoted as saying after the match.
“I have met so many people who have inspired me and it’s mind-blowing for me. I am so proud that I could handle things mentally,” she stated.
Prior to the final, Swiatek and Jabeur had beaten each other twice. However, Swiatek was yet to get the better of Jabeur in a Grand Slam. With the win, Swiatek took a 3-2 lead over Jabeur.
“This is a pretty nice rivalry and we are going to have many more. And I am pretty sure you are going to win some of them. Don’t worry.
“Congrats to her team because the dedication that you guys show is always amazing,” Swiatek said.
Swiatek also became the first woman from Poland to win the US Open. The youngster also hailed Jabeur, calling the 28-year-old an inspiration.
“I am also proud that tennis is getting more and more popular at home. Basically what Ons said, you are such an inspiration as well,” she added.
