“This didn’t happen overnight,” Iga Swiatek talks about her journey from a “crier” to a “model for mental toughness”

Iga Swiatek also gave away some tips to manage stress who cannot afford proper therapy.

“This didn’t happen overnight,” Iga Swiatek talks about her journey from a “crier” to a “model for mental toughness”

Iga Swiatek (Image via Imago)

Polish tennis ace and World No. 1 Iga Swiatek was among the first to talk about the need for a psychologist for tennis players. The 23-year-old was targeted for traveling with her psychologist Daria Abramowicz. However, Swiatek paid no heed to those talks, and now she is preparing the rewards for that decision.

While skill and technique were never a problem for Swiatek, the Pole has become an absolute beast in terms of her mental toughness. Her win over Naomi Osaka in the second round of the 2024 Roland Garros is the latest example of that. Swiatek won the match despite being pushed to the edge by the former World No. 1.

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She eventually went on to win the title in Paris for a third consecutive year and Swiatek’s mental toughness played a major role in her victory. However, the 23-year-old was not always like that as she used to take her losses to her heart. But now, Swiatek is able to fight the demons in her head and win crucial matches.

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Three or four years ago I was called very emotional, I was accused of crying during matches. Today, I am considered a model of mental toughness on the court and I am not afraid to say that this opinion is well-deserved. I know how much work goes into it - my own work and that of Daria. It didn't happen overnight.
Iga Swiatek said during an interview with Zwierciadlo

This change in mentality has not been achieved overnight by Swiatek, as the Pole states. She claims that while she was criticized for being too emotional a few years back; she is now hailed for her mental toughness. Swiatek feels the praise is well-deserved.

Iga Swiatek talks about ways to deal with stress

Iga Swiatek was quizzed about the ways someone can deal with stress if they feel overburdened by it. The Polish ace was quick to suggest getting help from a professional. However, for those who cannot afford it, Swiatek gave other pointers, like trying meditation and different breathing techniques.

Iga Swiatek
Iga Swiatek (via Imago)

The World No. 1 women’s tennis player also advocates for physical movement and feels it is equally important for human mental well-being. 

First of all, if they can afford it, they should use the help of specialists, for example, a psychologist or a psychotherapist. On a daily basis, I recommend meditation apps, learning various breathing techniques, and, of course, movement - the one we like and that suits us. Any movement supports our mental well-being and can help us cope with stress. I know something about this!
Iga Swiatek suggests

The Polish ace also talked about trying something like building blocks, like she herself does. It is worth mentioning that Swiatek plays LEGO to work on her concentration game and cut the outside noise.

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