World number one Iga Swiatek delivered a masterclass in composure and defiance after securing her spot in the US Open fourth round, forcefully shutting down a reporter's line of questioning about her physical appearance.
The Polish sensation, who dispatched Slovenia's Kaja Juvan 6-0, 6-1 in a commanding display, found herself facing an unexpected volley during her post-match press conference. A journalist's inquiry about whether she felt she had become "more muscular" and if this gave her an advantage prompted a swift and cutting response from the typically reserved champion.
'Judge me on my tennis, not my body'
Swiatek fixed the reporter with a firm gaze before replying: "It's kind of surprising. I don't think that's really the case. Actually, I have the same weight since I started playing on the WTA tour."
She continued, her voice laced with frustration: "Maybe it's because I have a different style and I'm not putting on weight in the same way as other girls. It's not like we have any choice what our pre-dispositions are and what our body shape is."
The four-time Grand Slam winner emphasised the fundamental principle that athletes should be valued for their performance rather than their physique. "It doesn't really matter... we are all different. That's the thing I want to underline. We are all different and that's good."
A Wider Issue in Women's Sport
The tense exchange highlights the persistent scrutiny female athletes face regarding their bodies, a topic that extends far beyond the baseline. Swiatek's firm rebuttal echoes sentiments shared by many sportswomen who consistently advocate for the focus to remain on their athletic prowess rather than physical aesthetics.
Swiatek's powerful statement serves as a reminder that while serves and backhands are fair game for analysis, a player's physique is not open for public critique. The incident has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms, with many fans and fellow players praising Swiatek for her poised yet firm handling of the inappropriate questioning.
The top seed now advances to face Jelena Ostapenko as she continues her quest for a first US Open title, undoubtedly hoping the conversation will remain firmly fixed on her formidable tennis abilities.
