Iga Swiatek has the highest possible opinion about Aryna Sabalenka as the five-time Grand Slam champion thinks their rivalry was exactly what the WTA needed.
Since Ashleigh Barty’s stunning retirement from tennis, the Pole and the Belarusian have enjoyed the most success on the Tour and their rivalry is regarded as the best in the game.
Since clashing for the first time during the 2021 WTA Finals, they have had 11 other meetings in the latter stages of tournaments and Swiatek leads their head-to-head 8-4.
But apart from the 2022 season – when the Polish star went 4-1 in their meetings – it has been mostly an even matchup.
After falling short to the Belarusian in a three-set 2023 Madrid Open final, the Pole got her revenge at Caja Magica last May after saving three match points in thriller 2024 Madrid final and completing a 7-5 4-6 7-6 (7) win.
Also, she won their 2024 Rome final clash 6-2 6-3.
A couple of months later, Sabalenka ousted the Pole 6-3 6-3 in Cincinnati – they haven’t played since.
Swiatek on her rivalry with Swiatek: We creating some great entertainment
“What do I think about Aryna? That’s a tough one (laughs). I’ll be diplomatic. No, I’m kidding,” the Pole said.
“It’s nice to have…
