Carlos Alcaraz has a completely different personality… I’m an introvert” – Iga Swiatek on coping with ‘pressure’ and importance of ‘peace’

Iga Swiatek has noted some similarities between herself and ATP player Carlos Alcaraz. However, the WTA world No. 1 mentioned that their approaches to celebrating victories differ significantly due to their distinct personalities.

Swiatek is gearing up to begin her 2024 Cincinnati Open campaign after taking a short break from tennis following her bronze medal performance at the Paris Olympics. The Polish star was the frontrunner for the gold medal, particularly since the tennis event took place at Roland Garros, where she has claimed the last three French Open titles.

However, her quest for gold was unexpectedly cut short by Zheng Qinwen, who went on to win the gold medal. Swiatek secured the bronze by winning her third-place match against Anna Karolina Schmiedlova.

In a recent interview with Polish media outlet WP SportoweFakty, Iga Swiatek was asked about how she is managing the pressures of being the WTA world No. 1. Swiatek has previously admitted that holding the top spot in women’s tennis can be mentally taxing at times. In her response, the five-time Grand Slam champion referenced ATP world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz.

Swiatek pointed out that she and Alcaraz differ greatly in how they handle pressure and celebrate their accomplishments. While Alcaraz is known for his lively celebrations with family and friends—such as his post-victory party in Ibiza following his 2024 French Open win—Swiatek’s approach is much more reserved.

“Carlos Alcaraz has a completely different personality than I do. He travels to tournaments with a large group, enjoys life, has fun, and celebrates his successes in a very different way,”

Swiatek explained.

She continued by saying that, as an introvert, she values “peace” and simplicity.

“For me, it’s more important to have a calm environment, enjoy simple pleasures, and spend time with my loved ones. I’m an introvert, and doing more would make me feel exhausted,”

Swiatek added.

In the same interview with WP SportoweFakty, Swiatek was asked whether she consciously thinks about her ranking. As of now, she has spent a total of 116 weeks as the WTA world No. 1, including 75 consecutive weeks during her first stint and 41 consecutive weeks during her current reign.

The five-time Grand Slam champion expressed confidence, stating that she has “reached the level” where she doesn’t need to worry too much about her ranking. However, she acknowledged that this mindset likely comes from her position as one of the most dominant players in women’s tennis.

“I have reached the point where I know that tennis isn’t about the ranking. When I step onto the court, I focus on improving my game, and I see the ranking points as a result of that work. Of course, it’s easier to think this way when you’re at the top because it’s probably different when you’re struggling, and each tournament’s outcome affects, for instance, the budget for coaches and future tournaments. I understand that I’m in a privileged position,”

Swiatek remarked.

As the top seed in the Cincinnati Open women’s singles draw, Swiatek will begin her campaign in the second round on Wednesday, August 14, after receiving a first-round bye. She will face either Ajla Tomljanovic or a qualifier/lucky loser.

Rafael Nadal’s priceless message to heartbroken Alcaraz; welcomes Djokovic to elite ‘Golden Slam’ list with epic post

Rafael Nadal gave a special message to his Doubles Partner Carlos Alcaraz after he lost his Olympics Finals match against Top seed Novak Djokovic in the men’s singles Paris Olympics.

In a thrilling showdown on Sunday, Novak Djokovic triumphed over Carlos Alcaraz in the men’s singles final at the Paris Olympics 2024. Held at the iconic Roland Garros, this victory was particularly significant for the Serbian star as he secured his first Olympic gold medal. Djokovic clinched the win in straight sets, 7-6 (3), 7-6 (2), marking his second Olympic medal.

Both players displayed intense emotions after the match, but for different reasons. Novak Djokovic was euphoric after his victory, while Carlos Alcaraz broke down in tears. On X, Rafael Nadal shared a heartfelt message for his fellow Spaniard. He wrote,

“Carlos, although I know that today is a difficult day, value a medal that is very important for the entire country, and you will see, over time, that it is for you too.”