Iga Swiatek says she is considering making changes to her Tour commitments in the future with a desire to play fewer events.
The world No.1 has told reporters in Indian Wells that it could be ‘smarter’ if she streamlined her commitments to focus on the biggest events of the sport. Last year Swiatek played in 18 tournaments, earning more than $9.8m in prize money. This season is likely to be similar for the Pole but she also has the Olympic Games to prepare for which is being held at Roland Garros, venue of the French Open.
Whilst Swiatek is unlikely to make any significant changes in the immediate future, looking further ahead she has indicated that such adjustments will be made. It is not the first time a player has changed their schedule in such a way with Novak Djokovic being a notable example of somebody who has done this.
“Maybe in the future it will be smarter to become this kind of player who is missing some tournaments, but really focusing on the important ones,” Tennis Now quoted Swiatek as telling the media in Indian Wells. “Really scheduling your calendar in a way that you are not rushing to get points or anything. But you’re really doing it step-by-step like some of the top players—older and more experienced ones—I’m still kind of thinking about it.
“But I’m at this stage where I want to play everything. Especially the tournaments where I know I felt comfortable at. For sure before the Olympics it would be hard for me to decide I’m gonna miss this one. Just to stay fresh and have appropriate time for recovery. So we’ll see but if it’s gonna be necessary we may do that.”
The tennis calendar is one of the most demanding in sport with tournaments starting in January and concluding in November. Then during the off-season, many players chose to play in exhibition events. In this year’s calendar, there are 10 WTA 1000 events, four Grand Slams and the year-end finals. On top of that, there are also 17 WTA 500 and 23 WTA 250 tournaments taking place throughout the season.
Despite her hectic schedule, Swiatek still has her eye on Olympic glory where she will be bidding to become the first Polish tennis player to win a medal at the event.
“For sure I want to be ready for the Olympics,” Swiatek said. “It’s an important tournament. On the other hand, you have many chances in tennis. I would love to perform well there but I’m trying not to put too much pressure on myself.”
Swiatek’s immediate focus will be on Indian Wells where she is the top seed. Her opening match will be against either Danielle Collins or Erika Andreeva whose match on Wednesday was suspended due to poor weather.
