Iga Swiatek is feeling the spirit of the Olympic Games after her opening round win over Mona Barthel in Tokyo.
The former Roland Garros champion started her debut Olympics with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 victory over the German.
Breaking on six occasions, the Pole dominated her opponent as she cruised into the second round on a hot and humid day in Tokyo.
Speaking after the match Swiatek was surprised to have a late change to play on Centre Court and admitted she is feeling the Olympic spirit, “It was amazing,” she told the ITF website.
“I wasn’t expecting that. I know that they changed the schedule yesterday, but it was a special moment for me. I know that right now I really feel the Olympic vibe. I couldn’t actually imagine it properly, but for sure it’s a special event.
“It’s different than any other tournament. I’m trying to give myself the opportunity to get used to it and focus on playing.”
Swiatek has plenty of history when it comes to the Olympics as she won gold at the youth Olympics in the doubles with Kaja Juvan.
Also Iga’s dad, Tomasz also competed at the Olympics in 1988 in the Rowing events.
It was a humid day in Tokyo and Swiatek it isn’t her favourite conditions but was glad she could manage conditions, “It is humid. I’m not used to it. My perfect weather is in Great Britain or maybe [the weather] at 2020 Roland Garros!,” Swiatek admitted.
“It’s hard to get used to it, but we gave myself time, we came to Takasaki before going to the Olympic village to get used to the jetlag, humidity, and right now it’s much, much easier [than when I arrived].
“But still, when the stress comes and all the different factors that you have on that match, it’s different. I’m happy I’m in the second round and I can just get the experience.”
In the next round the 20 year-old will play Paula Badosa who came back to beat Kristina Mladenovic 6-7(4) 6-3 6-0.
