In a moment that left the Flushing Meadows crowd and commentary team utterly bewildered, world number one Iga Swiatek sparked a frenzy of speculation during her US Open quarter-final clash.
The Polish sensation, locked in a tense battle with reigning Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova, was caught on camera engaging in an activity rarely seen on centre court: she was typing intently on her mobile phone during a changeover.
The extraordinary scene unfolded during a pivotal moment in the second set. As Swiatek took her seat, a courtside camera zoomed in, capturing her scrolling and typing on her smartphone—a sight that immediately sent social media into a meltdown and prompted audible disbelief from the commentary box.
"She's on her phone! Is she allowed to do that?" exclaimed a stunned commentator, echoing the thoughts of millions watching around the globe.
Despite the apparent breach of sporting etiquette, the action is not against the rules. Grand Slam regulations permit players to use electronic devices during rest periods, primarily for performance analysis and data review. This loophole allows for moments that, while legal, are undoubtedly surreal for spectators.
The speculation ran rampant as to what could be so urgent. Was she checking tactics? Sending a quick message to her coach? Or perhaps even dealing with a personal matter mid-match? The mystery only added to the drama of the high-stakes encounter.
Ultimately, the distraction—or perhaps the strategic insight—worked in her favour. Swiatek rallied from a set down to secure a hard-fought 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 victory, booking her place in the semi-finals and proving that even the most unconventional methods can't break a champion's focus.
