Iga Swiatek admitted that nailing her fourth Grand Slam title – and third at Roland Garros on Saturday – was a struggle from start to finish.
The Pole will retain her world No. 1 ranking after recovering after letting a lead of a set and 3-0 almost slip away before putting the brakes on inspired Czech newcomer Karolina Muchova 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to win her third trophy in four years at Roland Garros.
“Do you want to start that roller coaster?” she asked post-match.
“It’s pretty surreal, everything. But the match was really intense, a lot of ups and downs,” the winner said.
“Stressful moments and coming back… I’m pretty happy that at the end I could be solid in those few last games and finish it.
“But Karolina really played well. It was a big challenge. I’m happy and really proud of myself that I did it.”
Swiatek now owns four Grand Slam titles and has a stranglehold on the top WTA ranking.
“I was a little bit surprised that it (comeback victory requiring two break-backs in the third set) actually happened,
“She was always coming back. I don’t know what I felt. It’s hard to describe.. but a lot of happiness.
“I felt suddenly tired after these three weeks. Maybe my matches weren’t physically exhausting, but it’s pretty hard to kind of keep your focus for almost three weeks.”
Swiatek was able to laugh as she lost the top to the Suzanne Lenglen trophy as she held it aloft at the ceremony only to have the crown of the silver salver tumble off onto the clay.
“I honestly felt like I was holding it with my finger, so I guess all these emotions caused that.,” the 22-year-old said
“I don’t mean to be disrespectful. I’m glad that the Suzanne Lenglen trophy is fine and it won’t happen again probably, but we’ll see.
“I just hope I’m gonna hold it again in future years.
Main photo:-
Roland Garros Paris French Open 2023 OOOPS! Iga Swiatek drops the lid of the Suzanne Lenglen trophy after winning Women’s singles by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
