The Polish Iga Swiatek (1st in the WTA ranking) defeated the American Coco Gauff (3rd) by 6-2 and 6-4 to reach their fourth final, and third consecutively, in Roland Garros.
Swiatek was more than satisfied with her level against Gauff: “I was quite intense and put pressure on Coco throughout the match. I think most of my game worked. I’m proud of myself”.
“After the tournament I usually realize what I accomplished, but during the process I feel like I just need to play another game. “Sometimes it’s hard not to see what’s at stake, but when I’m really focused on work and my tennis, I can do it more easily.”
The 23-year-old Pole spoke about the comparisons between her and Rafael Nadal in this contest: “We will see in 14 years if my journey is similar to his. Being talked about is obviously very good for me. I would never expect anyone to compare me to Rafa because for me he is above everyone and he is a legend. “I am proud to be mentioned in the same sentence as Rafa.”
Swiatek did not avoid the question and gave his opinion about the controversy between Gauff and the umpire: “I didn’t want to get into the discussion because it didn’t make sense to me. I’m honestly never sure because I’m just focusing on myself. I think it would be easier to have the replay, but I don’t know what that would look like logistically. When can you ask a referee to call a video? The chair umpire was pretty confident with her decision, so I don’t know what that would be like.”
Finally, he spoke about his preparation for the final against the Italian Jasmine Paolini (15th): “We played a long time ago, so I need to see what his game is now. Honestly, I haven’t seen it, so I don’t have much to say. I will just focus on myself and prepare tactically for the final.”
All the activity at Roland Garros 2024 can be followed LIVE on ESPN and STAR+.
