“Without us, they wouldn’t exist,” Iga Swiatek explains her public criticism of WTA as she looks to make her mark as a leader of Tour

Iga Swiatek talked about how much she now feels the responsibility of standing beside her fellow competitors.

“Without us, they wouldn’t exist,” Iga Swiatek explains her public criticism of WTA as she looks to make her mark as a leader of Tour

Iga Swiatek in action during a match. (credits: SPIN)

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek has been the face of women’s tennis for quite some time now, thanks to her dominating gameplay over the last two years. She has constantly been at the top of the pile and the ideal WTA Tour leader. However, Swiatek has in the past criticized the WTA’s policies and their ways of handling players.

In a statement released by Grupa PZU, the current World No. 1 yet again talked about how much she now feels the responsibility of standing beside her fellow competitors. 

YouTube video

The 22-year-old brought up how differently the WTA looks at different players according to their ranks. As per the Polish star herself, she could understand the differences after reaching the World No. 1 spot and now wants to fight for the welfare of all the players. 

FS Video
In fact, when I became number one, I could see how top players were treated differently from the players who are just rising. I would say that on the court itself, it obviously doesn't matter where they come from or what their history is because how they play & what they achieve will depend on what they show on the court.
She said
And off the court? Well, you can actually feel the difference...The main priority is for the players to be well because without us, it wouldn't exist.
She further continued

Swiatek believes that players should be the backbone of the organization

Iga Swiatek has recently highlighted the fact that the whole of the WTA doesn’t love the idea of allowing their players to be the backbone of the organization. 

I have raised some things in the media & criticized the WTA at times, so I realize this may be uncomfortable for them. But I also just try to be a leader who stands behind the players. I think it's easy for corporations like this to forget that we should be the backbone of it all.
She said
Iga Swiatek in action during a match. (credits: The New York Times)

In the past, Swiatek has slammed the WTA for their unjust policies, which have led to a lot of players suffering. Now, Swiatek feels it is the right time to act as the leader who can stand beside all her competitors and remind WTA of their responsibilities.

She wants all the players to stand in unity and act as formidable candidates when discussing issues.

In case you missed it: