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Swiatek: Women's Tennis Stands Tall – No Need for Men's Shadow

3 January 2026

Swiatek: Women's Tennis Stands Tall – No Need for Men's Shadow
Swiatek says women's tennis stands tall on its own, without needing a male benchmark.

Swiatek on Watching the Sabalenka–Kyrgios Match

IGA Swiatek, Wimbledon champion, was clear when asked if she watched the so‑called gender clash between Aryna Sabalenka and Nick Kyrgios on December 28. She said she hadn't watched it, 'because I don't watch that kind of stuff.'

She noted the match drew a lot of attention but that it had no bearing on social change or any major issue.

A Standalone Strength of Women's Tennis

Swiatek stressed that women's tennis has its own strengths and narratives, and there is no need to compare it to men's tennis. She highlighted events like the Fed Cup (the old name for the women's team format, now evolving with newer formats) and urged fans to celebrate both tours and the formats that bring the sport together.

She also emphasized the value of teamwork, pointing out how doubles or mixed formats show tennis's broader appeal and keep the sport exciting.

Punchlines: If women's tennis ever needs a soundtrack, it's the sound of fast serves and even faster footwork. And remember: in tennis, the score may lie, but the gender debate doesn't have to—just enjoy the rally and move on to dessert.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Swiatek watch the Sabalenka–Kyrgios match?

No. She said she hadn't watched it, citing she doesn't watch that kind of thing.

What did she say about comparing women's and men's tennis?

She argued that women's tennis has its own strengths and doesn't need to be measured against the men's game.

What did she mention about events that unite the sport?

She highlighted the value of team formats like the Fed Cup (and evolving formats) that bring players and fans together.