While some players at the Australian Open, including World No. 6 Jessica Pegula, have complained about slower courts and heavier balls this year, Iga Swiatek isn’t buying into it. The World No. 2, who has been in scintillating form, says she hasn’t noticed significant differences from previous years.
Swiatek: “I haven’t noticed them being slower”
Speaking after her dominant 6-1, 6-0 victory over Emma Raducanu in the third round, Swiatek was asked about the conditions at Melbourne Park, which have been criticized by other players. The five-time Grand Slam champion was unfazed, stating:
“I haven’t noticed them being slower. For me, they’re fast. I remember last year, newer balls felt like bullets, and you couldn’t control them. I don’t feel that this year. But still, they are really dynamic, and they are bouncing on the court pretty fast. I wouldn’t say there’s much difference.”
Pegula’s contrasting perspective
Swiatek’s comments contrast with Pegula’s, who cited the slower conditions as a key factor in her surprising third-round loss to Olga Danilovic. Pegula remarked, “Conditions were so slow. It was slower than a clay court, it felt like. The balls were so heavy, and that totally I think favored [Olga].”
The differing opinions may highlight how players’ styles and preferences affect their perception of the conditions.
Swiatek in imperious form
While others have struggled to adapt, Swiatek has been in cruise control at the tournament. The 23-year-old has dropped just 10 games across her first three matches, showcasing the dominance that earned her five Grand Slam titles.
Next up for Swiatek is a clash against lucky loser Eva Lys, one of the Cinderella stories of this year’s Australian Open. Swiatek holds a 1-0 record against Lys, having defeated her at the 2022 Stuttgart Open. Despite Lys’ incredible run, Swiatek enters the match as the heavy favorite.
A player unfazed by external factors
Swiatek’s comments and performance suggest that the conditions at Melbourne Park are working well for her powerful and dynamic game. While other players debate the changes, Swiatek seems focused on continuing her blistering run and solidifying her position as one of the tournament’s top contenders.
