Iga Swiatek recently entertained the idea of a battle of surfaces match against Aryna Sabalenka. Inspired by the iconic Rafael Nadal–Roger Federer match on two different surfaces, Swiatek has no objections to playing on one.
For context, back in 2007, ‘King of Clay’ Rafael Nadal was placed on a clay court, and his opponent was the grass court specialist Federer. The players had to play an exciting exhibition match with the court divided between the two surfaces.
Iga Swiatek (Via Imago)
Following Swiatek’s straight-set victory over Madison Keys, she was interviewed on the Tennis Channel. The 22-year-old was asked about her views on a battle of surfaces match against Aryna Sabalenka.
You know, it’s about movement. But on the other hand, it’s, it’s about, you know, how the ball is going to bounce. So, yeah, it would be really great, you know, for this kind of event to happen, in the women’s game. I think it would be interesting, but I got to work on my grass games anyway.Said Iga Swiatek via Tennis Channel
Swiatek was not the only WTA pro to be asked this question. Before the pole, WTA No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka was asked for her views on the battle of surfaces. Interestingly enough, as per the tennis beauty, she would be distracted by the colors and differences and lose 6-0, 6-0 to her competitors.
The whole conversation started with Sabalenka, who previously claimed that Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina, and herself have a slight edge over each other on different surfaces but do not fancy themselves on the unique court.
Iga Swiatek continues her Italian Open dominance, books semi-final spot against Coco Gauff
Polish pro-Iga Swiatek is known to be phenomenal on clay. Continuing her great reputation on the surface, the Pole managed to dominate her way to the semi-finals at the Rome Masters.
Her latest win was over Madison Keys, where Swiatek was among the top two when it came to service game win percentage. She was informed about the stats after her game.
Honestly, I keep laughing about my serve, but I know it's pretty good. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't. I wasn't aware of the stat. I don't know. I think even if I don't serve well, I know I can 22 points by just playing behind the baseline.Said Iga Swiatek via Tennis Channel.
Now, she takes on another American pro, Coco Gauff, in the semi-finals. While Swiatek has been brilliant with her service games, Gauff has been making quite some errors with her service. With over 35 double faults so far in the tournament, Gauff hopes to work on herself and get a second win over Swiatek.
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