Iga Swiatek made history by winning her first Wimbledon title. She overcame American Amanda Anisimova in the Round of 16 with an incredible show of prowess and concentration. Swiatek, who had not dropped a set all tournament, continued her strong play into the semifinal, winning 6-0, 6-0. This success is her sixth straight Grand Slam final victory. This monumental victory only puts into perspective her greatness in the sport. It’s an important capstone in her career after she has been through the gauntlet of a tough year.
Swiatek was truly magnificent throughout that final. Her exacting service game and amazing willingness to work as hard as anyone at the highest level was unmistakable. Swiatek spent long weeks of focused training, including an entire grass-court training camp in Mallorca. Her confidence was as high as it gets after a big run to the Bad Homburg final, giving her the physicality and mentality coming into this matchup. She attributed her achievements to a distinct Wimbledon nourishment. That plate of strawberries and cream pasta powered her to victory as she competed in the Olympics.
The win is historic, too, since Swiatek is the first Polish player—man or woman—to win a singles title at Wimbledon. She marked this milestone in tennis history by kissing the Venus Rosewater Dish, the glittering trophy presented to the tournament champion. Swiatek burst with appreciation for her mom, who flew in to see the final. Fifty years later, during her post-match interview that day, she was still unable to contain tears of joy.
“I never dreamed it would be possible to play in this final … I’m super proud of myself. Tennis keeps surprising me. Every slam final has been totally different. It’s hard to compare these journeys. For now I am enjoying this new feeling of being more comfortable on grass.” – Amanda Anisimova
As Swiatek reflects on her journey, she recognizes that she has one goal left to achieve a career Grand Slam on all surfaces—the Australian Open stands between her and this remarkable feat. Her goals this year were to qualify for the season-ending event in Turin and win another Grand Slam title. She has done a fantastic job meeting both objectives!
Swiatek’s victory was the culmination of a year filled with personal and professional trials and tribulations. Few believed she could return to her previous form after a catastrophic injury that forced her away from the sport for over a year. She didn’t give up, showing that you can find success through hard work and a commitment to prioritizing yourself.
“When I took my break, a lot of people told me that you would never make it to the top again if you take so much time away from the game,” – Amanda Anisimova
This victory has not only solidified Swiatek’s position among the best players in women’s tennis but has inspired a new generation of athletes. Her story is one that inspires many young minds hoping to accomplish their dreams against all odds.
The Wimbledon final wasn’t only the peak of individual excellence, it was the crushing emotional burden that both players bore. Anisimova, even in defeat, acquitted herself beautifully and recognized just how intimidating this moment was.
“Iga is such an unbelievable player, but she’s also been an inspiration to me,” – Amanda Anisimova
Over the course of the match, analysts were aware of the immense pressure both players were under. John McEnroe pointed out that Anisimova needed to focus on resetting her strategy, even during the craziness of the match.
“The first thing Anisimova needs to do is accept this situation is overwhelming,” – John McEnroe
While Poland marks this historic victory, Swiatek’s triumph has already brought happiness to the whole country. Her win generated enough energy that local reporters quickly dove in to stream free virtual cooking lessons. Fans enthusiastically participated, cooking strawberry pasta alongside their new champion!
“Poland has gone completely Wimbledon (and strawberry pasta) mad,” – Jakub Krupa